Gaussian Radius of curvature in an argon ion laser

In summary, the conversation is about calculating the radius of curvature of a beam in an argon ion laser with a wavelength of 514nm. The minimum beam waist is 1.0mm and the distance from the beam waist to the output mirror is 1.15m. The formula used is θ = 2λ/pi W02 to find the beam radius and ZR = piW02 / λ to find the radius of curvature. However, the answer given was R = 3.08m, while the attempted solution resulted in R = 33.5m. The mistake was using the beam width instead of the beam radius in the calculations.
  • #1
lauraboyleify
1
0
Hi, having a bit of trouble with this question
"In an argon ion laser ( λ = 514nm) the minimum beam waist is 1.0mm and is close to the plane mirror. Calculate the radius of curvature of the beam at the output mirror. 1.15m away"

Attempt at a solution:

θ = 2λ/pi W02
R = Z + ZR2/Z
ZR = piW02 / λ
I used
W0 = min beam waist = 1.00 mm
Z= distance from beam waist to mirror = 1.15m
And found Zr with the formula and used it in the Radius of curvature, R formula but got the worng answer. I got R = 33.5m
The answer given is R = 3.08m
 
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  • #2
Beam width isn't beam radius!
 

What is the Gaussian Radius of curvature in an argon ion laser?

The Gaussian Radius of curvature in an argon ion laser is a measure of the curvature of the laser beam as it propagates through the laser cavity. It is a characteristic of the laser resonator and is determined by the shape and alignment of the mirrors within the cavity.

How is the Gaussian Radius of curvature calculated?

The Gaussian Radius of curvature can be calculated using the formula R= L/2(1-cosθ), where R is the radius of curvature, L is the distance between the mirrors, and θ is the angle between the beam and the mirrors. Alternatively, it can also be measured experimentally using a beam profiler or interferometer.

Why is the Gaussian Radius of curvature important in an argon ion laser?

The Gaussian Radius of curvature is important because it affects the beam quality and stability of the laser. A smaller radius of curvature results in a more collimated and stable beam, while a larger radius can lead to beam divergence and fluctuations in output power.

How does the Gaussian Radius of curvature affect beam diameter and divergence?

The Gaussian Radius of curvature is directly related to the beam diameter and divergence. A smaller radius of curvature results in a smaller beam diameter and lower divergence, while a larger radius leads to a larger beam diameter and higher divergence.

Can the Gaussian Radius of curvature be adjusted in an argon ion laser?

Yes, the Gaussian Radius of curvature can be adjusted by changing the distance between the mirrors in the laser cavity. This can be done manually or using a control system to optimize the beam quality and stability for specific applications.

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