Exploring the Characteristics of a Laser Beam

In summary, the problem involves an argon laser emitting 1 watt of continuous light with a certain wavelength and diameter in vacuum. The questions ask about various quantities related to the laser light, including wavelength, frequency, period, wave number, velocity, intensity, amplitude, energy, linear and angular momenta, and photon flux. There are also questions about the pressure exerted on a body when the laser light is absorbed or reflected, and how the quantities change when the light is transmitted through a transparent glass block.
  • #1
Supertramp19
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Homework Statement



An argon laser emits 1 watt of continuous light (λ= 5.145 x 10-7 m) in a parallel beam of 2 mm diameter in vacuum.

Homework Equations



(a) What is the wavelength, frequency, period, wave number, velocity, intensity, and amplitude of the electric field of the laser light?

b) What is the energy, the linear and angular momenta carried by each photon? What is the photon flux (the number of photons per time) of the laser light?

(c) Assume that the laser beam is incident normally (θi = 0°) on the flat surface of a body. What pressure is exerted on the body when it fully absorbs the laser light? If the body fully reflects the laser light back, what is the pressure exerted on the body?

(d) The laser beam is incident normally (θi = 0°) on the flat surface of a transparent glass block of refractive index n=1.5, and only the 96% of the incident power enters into the block. Which of the above quantities in (a) and (b) change for the transmitted light inside the glass block and what are the new values for the changed quantities.


The Attempt at a Solution



I really don't know where to start. Need help/hints for any parts. Thanks in advance!
 
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  • #2
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Supertramp19 said:

Homework Statement



An argon laser emits 1 watt of continuous light (λ= 5.145 x 10-7 m) in a parallel beam of 2 mm diameter in vacuum.

Homework Equations



(a) What is the wavelength, frequency, period, wave number, velocity, intensity, and amplitude of the electric field of the laser light?

b) What is the energy, the linear and angular momenta carried by each photon? What is the photon flux (the number of photons per time) of the laser light?

(c) Assume that the laser beam is incident normally (θi = 0°) on the flat surface of a body. What pressure is exerted on the body when it fully absorbs the laser light? If the body fully reflects the laser light back, what is the pressure exerted on the body?

(d) The laser beam is incident normally (θi = 0°) on the flat surface of a transparent glass block of refractive index n=1.5, and only the 96% of the incident power enters into the block. Which of the above quantities in (a) and (b) change for the transmitted light inside the glass block and what are the new values for the changed quantities.


The Attempt at a Solution



I really don't know where to start. Need help/hints for any parts. Thanks in advance!

You must know some equations that have to do with wavelength, frequency, period, and some of the other things being asked here :smile:
 

1. What is a laser beam wave?

A laser beam wave is a concentrated and coherent stream of photons or light particles that travel together in a specific direction. It is created by stimulating atoms or molecules to emit light at a specific wavelength, resulting in a powerful and focused beam of light.

2. How is a laser beam wave different from regular light?

A laser beam wave is different from regular light in several ways. First, it is much more concentrated and focused, with all of the light traveling in the same direction. Additionally, the light in a laser beam is all the same wavelength, whereas regular light is made up of many different wavelengths. This results in a much more powerful and precise beam of light.

3. What are some practical applications of laser beam waves?

Laser beam waves have a wide range of practical applications. Some common uses include laser pointers, laser printers, barcode scanners, and surgical procedures such as LASIK eye surgery. They are also used in manufacturing processes, scientific research, and military technologies.

4. Can laser beam waves be harmful to humans?

Yes, laser beam waves can be harmful to humans if not used properly. The concentrated and powerful nature of laser beams can cause damage to the eyes and skin, including burns and even blindness. It is important to always follow safety precautions and use protective gear when working with laser beam technology.

5. How are laser beam waves produced?

Laser beam waves are produced by stimulating atoms or molecules in a medium, such as a gas, liquid, or solid, to emit light at a specific wavelength. This process is known as stimulated emission and is amplified by bouncing the light back and forth between two mirrors. The resulting beam of light is then focused and directed using lenses and other optical components.

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