How Are Lasers and X-rays Connected in Quantum Mechanics?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the relationship between lasers and X-rays within the framework of quantum mechanics. Participants seek to understand the underlying principles connecting these two phenomena, particularly in terms of their quantum mechanical models and mechanisms.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests resources for understanding the connection between lasers and X-rays in quantum mechanics.
  • Another participant explains that lasers operate through stimulated emission and population inversion, detailing the process of electron excitation and photon emission.
  • A participant expresses confusion about the information they found regarding lasers.
  • Further clarification is provided about the three-level system used in lasers, emphasizing the importance of population inversion for light amplification.
  • A participant suggests checking a specific website for more information on lasers and their fundamental aspects.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus, as there are varying levels of understanding and requests for clarification regarding the connection between lasers and X-rays. Multiple viewpoints and levels of knowledge are present in the discussion.

Contextual Notes

Some limitations include the lack of specific details about how X-rays relate to the quantum mechanical model in the context of lasers, as well as the dependence on definitions of terms like "population inversion" and "stimulated emission." Unresolved questions about the relationship between the two phenomena remain.

Roxy
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Does anyone know where I can find sites that explain how lasers & X - rays are related to the quantum mechanical model.
 
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Lasers amplify light by stimulated emission and rely on population inversion. You could try finding out more about that, or ask in more detail what you'd like to know?
 
I found some information but I don't get it.
 
If you'd be more specific to what you want to know, it will be easier to give an answer.

Lasers work by initially exciting electrons from a low-energy orbital to a higher-energy orbital. Normally in a two-level system (with ground state E0 and excited state E1) the energy of the electron would be lost by the emission of a photon and no amplification would occur. Lasers use special three-level materials (with an intermediate state E2) that prevent the electron from going back to its ground state.

Since the process from E1 to E2 is slower than the process from E0 to E1 population inversion will take place, where the number of atoms in the excited state is greater than the number of atoms in the ground state.

Now, when you shine light on a molecule with excited electron two photons will be released with identical characteristics (frequency and direction): light amplification. In a laser the light bounces back and forth through the material until it is finally released through a hole.

You can look at http://science.howstuffworks.com/laser.htm for more information. Oh, it is good to know that laser stands for "light amplified by stimulated emission radiation' and that the concept comes from the work of Einstein.
 
I'll move this to the quantum physics forum.
 
Roxy said:
Does anyone know where I can find sites that explain how lasers & X - rays are related to the quantum mechanical model.

https://www.physicsforums.com/journal.php?s=&action=view&journalid=13790&perpage=10&page=7

check out the "for nanotecnology and microelectronics lovers"

Monique has explained to you the most fundamental aspects of lasing-systems. They are the most essential things you need to know

regards
marlon
 
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