We show that the evolution equations describing the two-wave mixing interaction between two codirectional optical beams in photorefractive media can allow spatial shock-wave solutions. Our analysis indicates that these kink-type wavefronts move together at an angle that falls outside the initial ±θ sector of propagation. The apparent direction of propagation and the spatial widths of these optical shock-wave beams are directly related to their relative intensity.

• Received 13 April 2000

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevE.62.8657