Combination/Convergence of Laser Beams On A Singular Focal Point

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the combination of multiple laser beams converging at a single focal point. It highlights that while the intensities of the beams will add together, the fields will not due to incoherence among the beams. The principle is likened to the operation of a 'gamma knife', a tool used in medical applications for precise targeting. The inquiry emphasizes the need for clarity on how separate monochromatic beams interact at a focal point.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of laser beam properties, including coherence and monochromaticity.
  • Knowledge of optical principles related to beam combination and focusing.
  • Familiarity with medical applications of laser technology, specifically the gamma knife.
  • Basic physics concepts related to light intensity and interference.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of laser beam coherence and its effects on intensity at focal points.
  • Explore optical devices used for beam combination, such as prisms and beam splitters.
  • Study the operational mechanics of the gamma knife and its applications in medicine.
  • Investigate the mathematical models for calculating combined intensities of incoherent light sources.
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, optical engineers, medical professionals utilizing laser technology, and anyone interested in advanced laser applications and their interactions.

MathsDude69
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Hey Guys, first of all I apologise if this question is posted in the wrong forum section and a mod has to move it to its correct location. I am trying to find information on combining the paths of several laser beams. I have found much complex information pertaining to the combination of the beams at the origin of the beams, ie say for example using prisms etc to combine several beams into a single beam which is then projected towards the target. However I cannot seem to find information on the effects of projecting several beams separately onto a single focal point. Say for example 5 beams were trained on a single focal point some distance away from the lasers and that all the beams were monochromatic, of the same wavelength etc. Am I naive enough to think that the magnitude of the beams being 'felt' by the focal point would be somewhere in the region of the 5 beams combined? Can someone point me in the right direction on this one please?
 
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What you describe is the principle behind the 'gamma knife'

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gamma_knife

The intensities will add; the fields will most likely not since the different beams are incoherent with respect to each other.
 

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