| The nature of light propagation suggests its correspondence to many universal problems in wave physics. Considering the complexity in many wave systems and taking advantage of optical systems which allow easy control of the input and direct imaging of the output, we treat nonlinear optics within the broader context in connection with general wave dynamic problems. This thesis presents experimental and theoretical work probing physics into the crossover between nonlinear optics and fluid dynamics.The main theme of the thesis concerns three aspects. First, we develop the fundamental model of optical hydrodynamics and use the model to demonstrate all-optical dispersive shockwaves, hydrodynamic instabilities, as well as spatial supercontinuum generation. Second, we control 'light flow' propagation by adding it into optically induced structures. This leads to the observation of nonlinear wave propagations in periodic, rotating and fractal potentials. Wave dynamics and energy transfer are dramatically different from those in homogeneous media. Finally, we shape the 'light flow' itself to observe the interactions between wave evolution and nonlinearity. The realization of diffraction-free Airy beam in nonlinear material provides potential applications to novel photonic imaging devices. |
