Intense Wave Formation from Multiple Soliton Fusion and the Role of Extra Dimensions

We experimentally and numerically explore the role of dimensionality in multiple (three or more) soliton fusion supported by nonreciprocal energy exchange. Three-soliton fusion into an intense wave is found when an extra dimension, with no broken inversion symmetry, is involved. The phenomenon is observed for 2 + 1D spatial waves in photorefractive crystals, where solitons are supported by a spatially local saturated Kerr-like self-focusing and fusion is driven by the leading nonlocal correction, the spatial analog of the nonlinear Raman effect.

Automated summary

In this study, the role of dimensionality in multiple soliton fusion is experimentally and numerically investigated. It is found that three solitons can fuse into an intense wave when an extra dimension without broken inversion symmetry is involved.