A dielectric changes its optical and electric characteristics when an external source provides enough energy. We analyze the interaction between a laser beam and a dielectric surface placed between two metal plates in a capacitor-type configuration. We show that a voltage applied across the dielectric can shift the wavelength of the laser radiation as perceived by its electric dipoles. The optical behavior of the dielectric in this arrangement recommends the device as a possible optoelectronic switch which can be driven by a relatively small capacitor voltage.
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