The collimated parallel beam of a LASER

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a multiple-choice question regarding the characteristics of a collimated parallel beam of a LASER, specifically focusing on the properties of its photons in terms of phase, direction, intensity, and frequency.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore which property—phase or direction—best describes the nature of a LASER beam. There is a debate on the relevance of frequency and intensity in this context. Some participants express uncertainty about their reasoning and seek clarification on the emphasis of the terms used.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the question, sharing their thoughts on the importance of direction versus phase in relation to collimated beams. Some guidance has been offered regarding the coherence of phase in LASER beams, but no consensus has been reached on the best answer to the question.

Contextual Notes

There is a focus on the interpretation of the question and the implications of the terms used, with participants reflecting on their understanding of LASER technology as part of their coursework.

Asmaa Mohammad
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Homework Statement


Multiple-choice question:
The LASER beam is a collimated parallel one, that means that its photons have the same...
(i) phase (ii) direction (iii) intensity (iv) frequency

Attempt at a solution
I would exclude frequency because it has nothing to do with the fact that LASER beam propagates as collimated beam. I would also exclude intensity too because...I don't know actually, but I don't think it is the correct answer.
But both the direction and the phase are good reasons why LASER propagates as a collimated parallel beam, but I should choose only one, so please help me!
 
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You can collimate the light of every light source.

It depends on how you pronounce the sentence I guess. If you highlight laser, then the phase is the important point, if you highlight collimated parallel beam (more natural I think), then it is the direction.
 
TSny said:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Collimated_light
What has more emphasis here, direction or phase?
I think it is the direction, right?
mfb said:
You can collimate the light of every light source.

It depends on how you pronounce the sentence I guess. If you highlight laser, then the phase is the important point, if you highlight collimated parallel beam (more natural I think), then it is the direction.
I study LASER in my course, and by studying it I came to the concept of "collimated parallel beam". So, which choice would be more suitable for this question?
 
I would pick direction. If the format allows it, add a comment that the coherence in phase is given by the fact that it is a laser beam.
 
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