Laser Field Explained - Understand What It Is

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A laser field refers to the electromagnetic (EM) field generated by a laser, which can be either pulsed or continuous, though current research often emphasizes intense, pulsed lasers. The term is commonly encountered in contexts like laser wakefield accelerators and strong field laser physics. Participants in the discussion seek clarification on the concept, noting the importance of context for understanding. There is an acknowledgment of the need for precise terminology when discussing laser fields. Overall, the conversation highlights the complexity and significance of laser-generated EM fields in various scientific applications.
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Hello,
I have encountered this term quite a few times, but I don't really understand what it means. Is it an electric field somehow created by a laser? Could somebody explain this to me?
 
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I am also unfamiliar with the term. As Dave said, it would help if you could provide some sort of context.
 
Misha Kuznetsov said:
Hello,
I have encountered this term quite a few times, but I don't really understand what it means. Is it an electric field somehow created by a laser? Could somebody explain this to me?

In the context I normally hear about (e.g. laser wakefield accelerators and strong field laser physics), the term refers to the EM field generated by (generally very short) laser pulses.

e.g. http://www.europhysicsnews.org/articles/epn/pdf/2002/06/epn02606.pdf
 
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That's the kind of context I meant it in. Thanks.
 
e.bar.goum said:
the term refers to the EM field generated by (generally very short) laser pulses.
I would say that that's actually a bit too restrictive. It is the EM field emanating from a laser, not necessarily pulsed, although I admit that contemporary work focuses on intense, pulsed lasers.
 
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DrClaude said:
I would say that that's actually a bit too restrictive. It is the EM field emanating from a laser, not necessarily pulsed, although I admit that contemporary work focuses on intense, pulsed lasers.

Yes. You're totally right, my phrasing was particularly poor there.
 
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