Understanding Waveform & Autocorrelation in Pulse Lasers

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on the differences between a single 400nm wavelength pulse and two overlapping 800nm waves in a pulse laser system. It clarifies that wavelength refers to the distance between peaks, and in autocorrelation, overlapping two beams of 800nm can lead to destructive interference if they are half a wavelength apart, resulting in no intensity. The confusion arises from associating a single wavelength with the characteristics of a laser pulse, which can be misleading. Ultimately, the key takeaway is that overlapping two 800nm waves does not create a 400nm wave, despite the initial assumption. Understanding these principles is crucial for accurate pulse laser analysis.
Ted goldmund lee
Messages
3
Reaction score
0
So, I was working on autocorrelation for my pulse laser system and I started to wonder what is the difference between single wave with 400nm of wavelength and two 800nm waves overlapped.
In the knowledge, I know of, is that wavelength is the length between two picks.

And when it is pulse laser, often we use co-linear autocorrelation to obtain time width of our pulse. When I do this, how accurately I overlap two beams it shows 800nm not 400nm but in my dumb head I can't help but think this should be 400nm.

I know it is not 400nm because I saw it, but I just want to know what is the main difference.
 

Attachments

  • d21.png
    d21.png
    12.9 KB · Views: 336
Science news on Phys.org
If you overlap two 800 nm waves, exactly half a wavelength apart, you will get destructive interference and no intensity. You will not get a wave of wavelength 400 nm.
 
  • Like
Likes davenn
Ted goldmund lee said:
Summary: So, I was working on autocorrelation for my pulse laser system and I started to wonder what is the difference between single wave with 400nm of wavelength and two 800nm waves overlapped.
In the knowledge, I know of, is that wavelength is the length between two picks.

I'm confused- why do you associate a single wavelength with a laser pulse?
 
I would like to use a pentaprism with some amount of magnification. The pentaprism will be used to reflect a real image at 90 degrees angle but I also want the reflected image to appear larger. The distance between the prism and the real image is about 70cm. The pentaprism has two reflecting sides (surfaces) with mirrored coating and two refracting sides. I understand that one of the four sides needs to be curved (spherical curvature) to achieve the magnification effect. But which of the...
Back
Top