Exploring the Possibility of a Radio Wave "Raser": How Would it Work?

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In summary, the possibility of creating a "raser" or radio wave laser depends on the frequency and wavelength being used. At microwave frequencies, a conventional laser may not work due to not enough energy per photon. However, coherent radiation at these frequencies can be produced more directly. At lower frequencies like 32 kHz, generating coherent waves can be difficult due to the long wavelength, but using a large antenna can help. In terms of accuracy, there are 32.768 kHz crystals available for stable frequency references, but the long wavelength may make it difficult to hit small targets.
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ChrisAndre
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"Raser": Is it Possible?

Is it possible to make a "raser" (Radio Amplification by Stimulated Emission), or what we know now as a laser, but in the form of radio waves? How would this be achieved?
 
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Depends what wavelength you are calling radio - the first 'lasers' were microwave
 
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Microwaves? Cool! Say 32KHz frequency. Is there a way to generate coherent waves at this frequency? How accurate would this be?
 
  • #4


Indeed...masers are microwave-frequency lasers.

At lower frequencies, a conventional laser probably isn't workable...not enough energy per photon to stimulate emission in the usual manner. Coherent radiation at these frequencies is easy to produce more directly, though...you could draw some analogies between a laser/maser tube and an oscillator circuit, though the mechanism is quite different.
 
  • #5


ChrisAndre said:
Microwaves? Cool! Say 32KHz frequency. Is there a way to generate coherent waves at this frequency? How accurate would this be?

32 kHz is far, far below microwave frequencies...it's at the bottom of the low frequency band. The main difficulty with generating coherent radiation at this frequency is its long wavelength...you need a large antenna to efficiently emit it.

How accurate would it be in what respect? There's plenty of 32.768 kHz crystals out there that would allow for an extremely stable frequency reference. With a wavelength of 9 km, you're not going to hit a small target with it.
 

1. How does a "Raser" generate radio waves?

A "Raser" (Radio Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation) works by using a process called stimulated emission, where atoms are excited to emit radio waves in a synchronized manner. This results in a highly amplified and coherent radio wave signal.

2. What is the difference between a "Raser" and a traditional radio transmitter?

The main difference between a "Raser" and a traditional radio transmitter is the method of amplification. A traditional radio transmitter uses electronic components to amplify the signal, while a "Raser" uses stimulated emission of atoms to amplify the signal.

3. How does the wavelength of a "Raser" compare to traditional radio waves?

The wavelength of a "Raser" can be much shorter than traditional radio waves, as it is determined by the energy levels of the atoms being stimulated. This allows for a more focused and precise radio signal.

4. Can a "Raser" be used for communication purposes?

Yes, a "Raser" can be used for communication purposes, as it is capable of producing a highly amplified and coherent radio wave signal. However, further research and development is needed to make it a viable option for practical use.

5. What are the potential applications of a "Raser"?

The potential applications of a "Raser" are vast, as it has the potential to be used in various fields such as communication, radar technology, and even medical imaging. It could also provide a more energy-efficient alternative to traditional radio transmitters.

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