sgoeke said:Homework Statement
Determine the amount of energy carried in 1 m of a 3.5 mW He-Ne laser beam if the cross-sectional area of the beam is 5x10^-6 m^2.
Homework Equations
J/s = Watt
The Attempt at a Solution
I converted the mW to W. I feel like I should put .0035W over 5x10^-6 m^2 to get intensity. But I don't know where intensity comes into this problem or where the other 1 m comes in.
A laser beam is a concentrated and focused beam of light that is created through the process of stimulated emission. It is typically a coherent and monochromatic light source, meaning that it consists of a single color and its waves are aligned in a specific direction.
Energy from a laser beam is produced when the beam comes into contact with a material, causing its atoms and molecules to vibrate and generate heat. This heat energy can then be converted into other forms of energy, such as electricity, through various mechanisms.
Energy from a laser beam has a wide range of potential applications. It can be used for cutting and welding in industries, as a power source for spacecraft, as a tool in scientific experiments, and in medical procedures such as laser eye surgery.
The efficiency of energy production from a laser beam depends on various factors, such as the type of laser, the material it comes into contact with, and the conversion mechanism used. However, compared to other energy sources, laser beams can be highly efficient, with some systems achieving up to 70% conversion efficiency.
As with any form of energy, there are potential risks associated with using energy from a laser beam. These include the potential for eye damage if exposed to the beam directly, and the risk of fire or explosion if the beam is not properly controlled. It is important to follow safety guidelines and have proper training when working with laser beams.