Effective control and switching of optical multistability in a three-level V-type atomic system

We theoretically analyze the behavior of single optical bistability (OB), double OB, and tristability (OT) in a three-level V-type atomic system confined in a unidirectional optical ring cavity. The physics behind the emergence of various bistable and tristable states, and switching from the absorptive to the dispersive characteristics, are explored. The role of probe- and control-field detunings on the input-output characteristics is probed. Further, it is found that the switching between various bistable phenomena is defined by the ratio between the absolute peak values of the parameters describing dispersion and absorption, respectively. This ratio sets a criterion for obtaining absorptive OB, OT, double OB, and dispersive OB. The role of control-field intensity and detuning as well as the cooperation parameter on the input-output characteristics are explored. Finally, a scheme is discussed to control the width of the middle branch of double OB and OT as well as single OB.