How does laser dissipation in air affect power and intensity?

In summary, equations for calculating the power/intensity of a laser after a certain distance would involve considering the beam divergence, which is affected by the laser's focus, and atmospheric absorption, which depends on factors such as wavelength and air composition. Additionally, for larger lasers, thermal blooming caused by the laser's heat and air's changing index of refraction can also impact the laser's power/intensity.
  • #1
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What equations would I need for calculating this, say if I wanted to know what the power/intensity of an x watt, x wavelength laser would be reduced to after x metres?
 
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  • #2
Simplest is just the beam divergence. Unless the laser is perfectly focussed it will have a beam divergence in mRad. A milli-radian is 1 part in 57,000
Over very long distances you might want to consider atmospheric absorption.
 
  • #3
If you know the extinction coefficient 'k' for air (which varies with wavelength, humidity, density, CO2 concentration, etc) the intensity follows Beer's law:

I = I_0 exp(-kz)
 
  • #4
It also matters whether you're talking about a laser pointer or an SDI-sized laser. For the latter, there's also something called "thermal blooming" - the laser heats the air, the air develops a changing index of refraction depending on the distance to the beam, and you've just stuck a lens in front of your laser, dispersing it.
 

FAQ: How does laser dissipation in air affect power and intensity?

What is laser dissipation in air?

Laser dissipation in air refers to the process of a laser beam losing energy as it travels through the air. This can be caused by various factors such as scattering, absorption, and diffraction.

How does laser dissipation in air affect the intensity and focus of the laser beam?

Laser dissipation in air can cause a decrease in the intensity of the laser beam, making it less powerful. It can also cause the beam to spread out or become more diffused, affecting its focus and precision.

What are some common methods used to reduce laser dissipation in air?

One method is to use a higher-powered laser, as this can compensate for some of the energy lost during dissipation. Another method is to use a laser with a shorter wavelength, as this can reduce absorption by the air molecules. Additionally, using specialized lenses or mirrors can help to focus and direct the laser beam more effectively.

Can laser dissipation in air be harmful to humans?

In most cases, laser dissipation in air is not harmful to humans. However, it is important to follow proper safety precautions when working with lasers, as direct exposure to a laser beam can cause eye damage or skin burns.

How does the environment affect laser dissipation in air?

The environment can greatly impact laser dissipation in air. Factors such as temperature, humidity, and air composition can all affect how much energy is lost as the laser beam travels through the air. For example, dry air may cause more scattering than humid air, while high temperatures can increase absorption by the air molecules.

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