Light diffusion with gain and random lasers

In this paper we present calculations on light diffusion with amplification that can explain previous experiments on the spontaneous emission from such a medium. Also we discuss the experimental considerations on realizing a medium that both multiply scatters and amplifies light. In an amplifying random medium different processes can occur. We argue that one can distinguish three regimes depending on the amount of scattering, and discuss these regimes in the context of random laser action. © 1996 The American Physical Society.