What is the safest way to focus a powerful laser for a homemade laser gun?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the construction of a homemade laser gun using a powerful laser pointer and converging lenses. Participants emphasize the dangers associated with lasers, particularly the risk of eye injury and burns. The consensus is that while focusing a laser increases its intensity, safety precautions are paramount, and such projects should only be undertaken with a clear purpose and understanding of the risks involved. The thread concludes with a warning against treating lasers as toys and a reference to the Physics Forums guidelines on dangerous activities.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of laser physics and light concentration
  • Knowledge of optical components, specifically converging lenses
  • Familiarity with safety protocols regarding laser usage
  • Basic principles of physics related to energy and heat transfer
NEXT STEPS
  • Research laser safety standards and guidelines
  • Learn about the properties and applications of converging lenses
  • Explore the physics of light intensity and heat generation
  • Investigate safe experimental practices in optics
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics enthusiasts, hobbyists interested in optics, and anyone considering experiments involving lasers. It serves as a cautionary guide for safe practices in laser usage.

Noctua
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Hello,
I am Noctua and i have 14 years old :D
So, today i had the idea of building a sort of non powerful laser gun.I plan to focus the light with converging lens.I will use a powerful laser Pointer.So, here is my questions:

If I absurdly concentrate a laser , the concentrated light would be "more hot" than the light that has not been concentrated ?

Which laser pointer should I use? More watts, more powerful?

I think i have only that questions...Please, answer me :DD Thanks!

Sorry for bad english, i am from Brazil.
 
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Be careful kid, laser is no plaything. What you said there are all true. Focused pointing laser may not be damaging to skin but it can be harmful for delicate tissue such as people's eyes. What is the purpose of your project, is it for playing tool or for physical experiment? Either way never point it (even the unfocused beam) to anyone's eye.
 
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It's for a physical experiment, my first physical experiment.I am interested in physics :) Thanks for the answer!
 
Ok, last question:
If i concentrate two lasers with convergings lens, the result will be only one powerful laser?
 
I'm sorry but we can't help you. Lasers are NOT toys and you should only be working with them if you have a specific purpose in mind. Otherwise you are very likely to injure yourself or someone around you, possibly quite seriously. Find another project to do before you blind someone or burn a house down.

Please see PF rules regarding dangerous activites here: https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/physics-forums-global-guidelines.414380/

Thread locked.
 

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