LASER stands for “Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation.” It is a technology that produces focused and coherent beams of light through a process of optical amplification. In a laser system, atoms or molecules are stimulated to emit photons (light particles) in a synchronized manner, resulting in a concentrated and intense beam of light.
Laser light is characterized by several important properties:
- Coherence: Laser light is coherent, meaning the waves of light are all in phase and have a consistent frequency. This coherence allows laser light to stay focused over long distances, making it useful for applications like laser pointers and telecommunications.
- Monochromaticity: Laser light is usually very pure in color, consisting of a single wavelength. This monochromatic property is why lasers are used in fields such as spectroscopy and medical treatments.
- Directionality: Laser light is highly directional, meaning it travels in a tight, narrow beam. This property allows lasers to be precisely targeted and focused on specific areas, making them useful in surgical procedures and manufacturing processes.
- Intensity: Laser light can be extremely intense and concentrated. This intensity makes lasers suitable for cutting, welding, and drilling materials, as well as for scientific research and military applications.
