Is Frequency Doubling the Secret to Producing Red Light in Laser Pointers?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of changing the frequency of light via a media filter without changing its direction. The concept of conservation of energy is brought up, and it is mentioned that while light can slightly reduce its wavelength while propagating through slower materials, the original wavelength is restored when it exits the material. The idea of fluorescence is also mentioned as a potential way to change light frequency, but it would result in loss of direction information. The conversation then shifts to discussing how laser-pointers use a frequency-doubling crystal to produce red light from infrared light.
  • #1
EspangeBob
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Is it possible to change light wave frequency via a media filter?
or if it is impossible is there any why to do it?

without changing light direction !
 
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  • #2
Welcome to the PF. :smile:

To change the light frequency, you would normally need some non-linear process to generate higher harmonics or to modulate the frequency of the light. Is that what you are asking about?

When light changes media as it propagates (like when it goes from air to glass), the frequency stays the same but the propagation velocity changes (so what happens to the wavelength?).

And what do you mean by "media filter"? :smile:
 
  • #3
Remember conservation of energy. The energy of a photon is proportional to frequency.

So the power out of a passive filter is the power in, minus any absorption or reflection.
 
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  • #4
EspangeBob said:
Is it possible to change light wave frequency via a media filter?
It is not possible to change the frequency of light without loss of direction.

Light can reduce it's wavelength slightly while propagating through slower materials such as glass, but the original wavelength is restored when the light exits the material.

The closest analogy to your “wanted” effect is fluorescence, where a molecule excited by a shorter wavelength photon then releases a lower energy photon with longer wavelength. But the direction information will be lost during the quantum conversion.
 
  • #5
EspangeBob said:
Is it possible to change light wave frequency via a media filter?
or if it is impossible is there any why to do it?

without changing light direction !
Can you explain better what you are trying to accomplish?
 
  • #6

FAQ: Is Frequency Doubling the Secret to Producing Red Light in Laser Pointers?

How does changing frequency via a media affect the transmission of signals?

Changing frequency via a media can have a significant impact on the transmission of signals. Higher frequencies typically have shorter wavelengths, which means they can travel shorter distances and are more easily absorbed by obstacles in the media. Lower frequencies, on the other hand, have longer wavelengths and can travel further and penetrate obstacles more easily. Therefore, changing the frequency can affect the range and reliability of signal transmission.

What are the advantages of changing frequency via a media?

There are several advantages to changing frequency via a media. One advantage is that it allows for more efficient use of the available bandwidth. By using different frequencies, multiple signals can be transmitted simultaneously without interference. Additionally, changing frequency can also improve the quality and clarity of the transmitted signal, as certain frequencies may be less prone to interference or noise.

How do different types of media affect frequency changes?

The type of media being used can have a significant impact on frequency changes. For example, in wireless communication, the surrounding environment can affect the propagation of signals at different frequencies. In wired communication, the type of cable used can also impact the frequency range and quality of the transmitted signal. Therefore, it is important to consider the type of media when changing frequencies.

Can changing frequency via a media improve data transfer speeds?

In some cases, changing frequency via a media can improve data transfer speeds. This is especially true for wireless communication, where using higher frequencies can allow for faster data transfer rates. However, it is important to note that other factors such as network congestion and signal interference can also affect data transfer speeds.

Are there any disadvantages to changing frequency via a media?

While changing frequency via a media can have many benefits, there are also some potential disadvantages. As mentioned earlier, higher frequencies can be more easily absorbed by obstacles, which can limit the range of signal transmission. Additionally, using multiple frequencies can also increase the complexity and cost of communication systems. It is important to carefully consider the trade-offs and potential drawbacks before implementing frequency changes via a media.

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