How Does a Laser Work?

Lasers are small yet powerful beams of concentrated light. These beams of light are
so powerful that they are able to perform a number of tasks that one would think
were impossible for a simple beam of light. Since the creation of lasers, laser
technology has continued to grow and flourish. Today, these powerful, concentrated
beams of light are used for a variety of purposes.

HOW DO LASERS WORK?

Lasers work to amplify a light source and turn it into one powerful, concentrated
beam. Electricity must be supplied to the laser through a power supply. Lasers can
be powered through the use of batteries, electricity, or even another laser. Lasers
also must have a medium that produces amplification of light. Once a laser has
power and something to pass through, it becomes a concentrated beam. This beam
can then be emitted outward in a single line of bright light. The word "laser" is an
acronym that stands for "light amplification by the stimulated emission of radiation."

The Physics of Lasers

How a Laser Works

Lasers: How Do They Work? (PDF)

How the Free-Electron Laser Works

How "Random" Lasers Work

How the Helium-Neon Laser Works

WHO INVENTED THE LASER?

The invention of lasers is a controversial area. The first laser is said to have been
invented by a man named Charles H. Townes. But while some people say that there
was one sole inventor or team of inventors of the laser, others argue that this is not
the case. Several patents were secured in the creation of the laser, and some argue
that there is no single inventor of lasers; rather it was a group effort. Despite the
controversy, laser technology has grown and improved rapidly throughout the past
several years. Those who come up with new forms or uses for laser lights are highly
regarded.

Who Invented the Laser?

The First Laser: Charles H. Townes

Who Invented the Laser: An Analysis of the Early Patents

Inventor of the Blue Laser

HOW IS LASER LIGHT DIFFERENT FROM ORDINARY LIGHT?

There are big differences between ordinary lights, or natural lights, and laser lights.
Natural light generally illuminates a large area. This is because the natural light and
other light sources are designed to distribute light to larger areas. With natural light
being distributed and not focused into one beam, it is much less powerful than a
laser light. Laser lights are much more focused than natural light sources.

What Is Laser Light, and How Is it Different?

Light Sources and Laser Safety (PDF)

Lasers and Light

WHAT DO WE USE LASERS FOR?

In the beginning, the use of a laser was limited to areas of science and exploration.
Today, as laser technology and technology in general has advanced, the uses are
numerous. Many average people use lasers as a source of entertainment. This is
possible through devices such as laser pointers and can be very fun and educational
when they are used safely and responsibly. Other uses for lasers are found in the
medical and chemistry fields. Lasers are often used in communications and
information processing devices. They are frequently used during experiments in
science fields, particularly in chemistry. Lasers can also be useful to surgeons and in
diagnosing and treating various types of cancers. Laser-cutters are also a common
use for lasers.

Lasers in Communications and Information Processing (PDF)

Use of Lasers in Chemistry (PDF)

Laser Surgery on the Skin

Laser Therapy for Cancer Treatment

Laser-Cutters

WHAT OTHER KINDS OF LASERS ARE THERE?

While there are highly powerful types of lasers that are used in medical work,
chemistry labs, and the development of technology, there are other types as well. A
popular type of laser is a laser pointer. Laser pointers are designed for public use and
are nowhere near as powerful as the lasers used in professional settings. When it
comes to professional lasers, there are several varieties that can be used dependent
upon the specific need. Lasers can be divided into gas, liquid, or solid lasers. In gas

lasers, the medium consists of a single gas or vapor or a combination of more than
one. In liquid lasers, a dye is generally used as the medium. Solid lasers use a
medium such as crystal or glass.

Eximer Lasers

Types of Lasers

Laser Types

Gas Lasers

Genes Linked to Cancer Could Be Easier to Detect With Liquid Lasers

Solid-State Lasers (PDF)

Basic Principles and Types of Lasers (PDF)

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON LASERS

Laser Safety: Following the instructions provided on this website while using a
laser will ensure a safe experience.

Interactive Laser Game: Here, users can play a laser simulation game to get a
better idea of how lasers work.

Lens and Laser Tag Applications: On this website, a guide to choosing the best
lens for a laser tag application is provided.

Laser Pointers (PDF): The popular use of laser pointers and their safety is
covered in this document.

5 Tricks You Did Not Know You Could Do With Laser Pointers: On this resource,
those with laser pointers can learn several unique tricks that they can do with
their lasers.

Green Laser Pointers (PDF): This document discusses information involving

green laser pointers.

Lasers, Aircraft and the Law: Shining laser pointers in the air near aircraft is
illegal. This resource discusses the specifics of the law.

Laser Pointers: Their Potential Effects on Vision and Aviation Safety (PDF):
Reading this document, readers will be able to better understand the risks of
laser pointers, including vision and aircraft.

Activities With Lasers: Here, those who own laser pointers are provided with a
number of activities and experiments that they can perform with their lasers.

Radiation-Emitting Products: Important Information about Laser Pointer

Manufacturing (PDF): Throughout this document, various information about laser
pointers, radiation, and manufacturing lasers is discussed.

Laser Pointers and Parkinson's Patients: This article discusses the discovery of
how laser pointers assist those suffering from Parkinson's Disease with walking.

State and Local Government Laser Safety Requirements (PDF): Each state has its
own laws and regulations when it comes to lasers; this resource discusses basic
requirements.

Outdoor Laser Tips and Safety: Here, uses for lasers in the outdoors are
discussed in addition to basic outdoor laser safety practices.

Laser Pointers and Eye Safety: On this website, those who are interested in
using laser pointers can find information on the safest types for eyes.

Laser Pointers and Touch-Screen Devices (PDF): Through this document, readers
can discover the use of laser pointers to assist people with driving.