Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the terminology and calculations related to laser power, particularly in the context of LIDAR systems and their use of pulsed lasers in atmospheric research. Participants explore the differences in power measurements, the significance of pulse duration, and the relationship between energy (joules) and power (watts).
Discussion Character
- Technical explanation
- Mathematical reasoning
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- Some participants note that LIDAR systems typically use lasers with power in the millijoule range, questioning the high cost of such lasers compared to cheaper laser diodes.
- One participant suggests that the difference in cost may relate to the characteristics of pulsed lasers versus continuous wave lasers.
- Another participant explains that pulsed lasers can achieve high peak power due to short pulse durations, providing an example calculation for a 25 mJ pulse delivered in 2 ns, resulting in a peak power of approximately 12.5 MW.
- There is a request for clarification on the formula to convert joules to watts, with participants discussing the implications of pulse duration on average power calculations.
- Participants debate the average power of a 100 W laser pulsed for 100 nanoseconds, with one asserting that insufficient information is provided to determine the average power without knowing the firing rate.
- Another participant confirms that if a 100 W laser fires a single pulse of 100 ns, the average power would be significantly lower than the peak power.
- There is a discussion about the energy per pulse and how to calculate total energy based on pulse frequency.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on the interpretation of laser power terminology and calculations, particularly regarding average versus peak power and the implications of pulse duration. No consensus is reached on the specific calculations or the significance of the differences discussed.
Contextual Notes
Limitations in the discussion include assumptions about the firing rates of lasers and the definitions of average versus peak power, which are not fully resolved. Participants also clarify the relationship between joules and watts, but some calculations remain contested.
