Laser Crystals -- effects of crystal size

AI Thread Summary
The size of a neodymium doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser crystal rod does not alter its spectral characteristics, but it does influence the lasing power output, which scales with crystal size. Concerns were raised about how crystal size might affect the laser's lifetime, prompting a reference to another discussion thread. The conversation also highlighted the confusion surrounding unrelated topics, such as radioactive decay, which detracted from the main focus. Participants were advised to avoid cross-posting to maintain clarity in discussions. Overall, the consensus is that while size impacts power output, spectral properties remain unchanged.
Chemmjr18
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Say that I have a neodymium doped yttrium aluminum Garnet (Nd:YAG) laser crystal rod. If I'm using this crystal in a laser, will the size of the crystal affect any characteristics of the laser itself. That is, will a laser containing a 4-by-7 mm Nd:YAG rod operate differently than a laser containing a 20-by-35 mm Nd:YAG rod? I would imagine that it doesn't.
 
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Chemmjr18 said:
Say that I have a neodymium doped yttrium aluminum Garnet (Nd:YAG) laser crystal rod. If I'm using this crystal in a laser, will the size of the crystal affect any characteristics of the laser itself. That is, will a laser containing a 4-by-7 mm Nd:YAG rod operate differently than a laser containing a 20-by-35 mm Nd:YAG rod? I would imagine that it doesn't.

The spectral characteristics won't change, but the amount of (lasing) power you can get out will scale with the size of the crystal.
 
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Andy Resnick said:
The spectral characteristics won't change, but the amount of (lasing) power you can get out will scale with the size of the crystal.
This what is was thinking. However, I was recently told that changing the crystal size would affect the lifetime. When I get a chance I'll link the thread. Thanks for the response.
 
Please continue the discussion in the other thread. Multiple threads about the same question are not helpful.
 
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