Quantum confined systems-interaction with radiation fields

Abstract Laser–matter interaction is an important field of scientific research. This article discusses the response of atomic and molecular systems to laser fields and presents a review of related studies. The methodologies employed to investigate the interaction of continuous as well as pulsed lasers with atomic systems are presented. The application of laser field along with external electric and magnetic fields influence the properties of the quantum confined heterostructures. The externally applied electric and magnetic fields and confining potentials representing environmental constraints provide additional channels to control such properties. A discussion on the linear and non-linear optical properties of quantum confined systems is presented. Another experimentally viable and crucial concept which is reviewed in the present work is molecular orientation and alignment.