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Incoming links: Alexander Prokhorov
Alexander Prokhorov Created 2026-10-24 Updated 2026-11-05
Alexander Prokhorov and Nikolay Basov developed a theory of the molecular maser. Their analysis combines a prepared molecular beam, stimulated emission and feedback from a resonant cavity. Oscillation begins only when the molecular radiation supplies more power than the cavity and load lose. Including saturation determines a finite steady amplitude. The calculation connects molecular energy levels with practical requirements for a stable microwave oscillator.[ref]
Theory of the Molecular Generator and Molecular Power Amplifier by Nicolay Gennadiyevich Basov and Aleksandr Mikhailovich Prokhorov. 1956, introduction and generator theory: self-excitation threshold and saturation
A physicist.[ref]
https://quantum-electronics.ru/wp-content/uploads/2016/en/16172.pdf. Independent professional profile
Portrait of Alexander Prokhorov
. Nobel foundation. Public domain in Sweden (PD-Sweden, as stated on Commons). Source usage terms, via Wikimedia Commons. Source.
Nikolay Basov Created 2026-10-24 Updated 2026-11-05
Nikolay Basov analyzed coherent molecular amplification with Alexander Prokhorov. Their 1956 maser theory relates the generated frequency to both the molecular transition and the cavity response, showing why a molecular oscillator can serve as a precise frequency reference. Below the condition for self-sustained oscillation, the same system can amplify an external microwave input. Distinguishing an amplifier from an oscillator therefore depends on feedback and loss as well as molecular excitation.[ref]
Theory of the Molecular Generator and Molecular Power Amplifier by Nicolay Gennadiyevich Basov and Aleksandr Mikhailovich Prokhorov. 1956, sections 2–3: frequency, self-excitation and molecular microwave amplification
Portrait of Nikolay Basov
. Nobel foundation, 1964. Public domain in Sweden (PD-Sweden photograph). Source usage terms, via Wikimedia Commons. Source.
