Carrier photoexcitation from levels in quantum dots to states of the continuum in lasing

Carrier photoexcitation from levels in quantum dots to continuous-spectrum states during lasing is analyzed theoretically. The simplest approach is used to provide upper estimates of the absorption coefficient and the photoexcitation cross section. Light absorption in carrier photoexcitation is shown to be essential for quantum dot laser operation only at very low total losses, e.g., in the case of long cavities.