A method and apparatus for analyzing a test material by inducing and detecting light-matter interactions. Particles of matter are introduced into a volume bounded by reflective surfaces wherein light of discrete frequencies can set up a standing wave mode of low loss. Light transported over a waveguide is introduced to induce a state change in the particles of matter and to cause the release of quantitized energy from the matter. A portion of the quantitized energy is captured and transported over a waveguide to a detector. The detector records a portion of the quantitized energy. Characteristics of the particles of matter may then be determined based upon the recorded portion of the quantitized energy.