Harmonic and subharmonic acoustic wave generation in finite structures.

The generation of harmonic and subharmonic vibrations is considered in a finite monodimensional structure, as it is produced by the nonlinear acoustic characteristics of the medium. The equation of motion is considered, where a general function of the displacement and its derivatives acts as the forcing term for (sub)harmonic generation and a series of 'selection rules' is found, depending on the sample constrains. The localization of the nonlinear term is also considered that mimics the presence of defects or cracks in the structure, together with the spatial distribution of subharmonic modes.

Conditions for anomalous acousto-optical diffraction by backward propagating acoustic waves.

Experimental evidence is given of acoustic plate waves, whose group velocity is contradirected with respect to the phase velocity, through a determination of the acoustic wavelength dependence on frequency, in a limited range of frequencies. The dependence dLambda/dOmega>0 between wavelength and frequency is experimentally verified, as the required condition for acousto-optical diffraction, where higher frequency components would scatter light into smaller diffraction angles.