What Are the Key Characteristics of a Laser Beam?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around the characteristics of a laser beam emitted by an argon laser, specifically focusing on its wavelength, frequency, and other related properties. Key calculations include determining the energy, momentum, and photon flux of the emitted light, as well as the pressure exerted on surfaces when the light is absorbed or reflected. The impact of the laser beam on a transparent glass block is also analyzed, particularly how the refractive index affects the transmitted light's properties. Participants express uncertainty about how to approach these calculations and seek guidance on relevant equations. The thread highlights the complexity of laser physics and the need for foundational knowledge in optics.
Supertramp19
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Homework Statement



An argon laser emits 1 watt of continuous light (λ= 5.145 x 10-7 m) in a parallel beam of 2 mm diameter in vacuum.

Homework Equations



(a) What is the wavelength, frequency, period, wave number, velocity, intensity, and amplitude of the electric field of the laser light?

b) What is the energy, the linear and angular momenta carried by each photon? What is the photon flux (the number of photons per time) of the laser light?

(c) Assume that the laser beam is incident normally (θi = 0°) on the flat surface of a body. What pressure is exerted on the body when it fully absorbs the laser light? If the body fully reflects the laser light back, what is the pressure exerted on the body?

(d) The laser beam is incident normally (θi = 0°) on the flat surface of a transparent glass block of refractive index n=1.5, and only the 96% of the incident power enters into the block. Which of the above quantities in (a) and (b) change for the transmitted light inside the glass block and what are the new values for the changed quantities.


The Attempt at a Solution



I really don't know where to start. Need help/hints for any parts. Thanks in advance!
 
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Supertramp19 said:

Homework Statement



An argon laser emits 1 watt of continuous light (λ= 5.145 x 10-7 m) in a parallel beam of 2 mm diameter in vacuum.

Homework Equations



(a) What is the wavelength, frequency, period, wave number, velocity, intensity, and amplitude of the electric field of the laser light?

b) What is the energy, the linear and angular momenta carried by each photon? What is the photon flux (the number of photons per time) of the laser light?

(c) Assume that the laser beam is incident normally (θi = 0°) on the flat surface of a body. What pressure is exerted on the body when it fully absorbs the laser light? If the body fully reflects the laser light back, what is the pressure exerted on the body?

(d) The laser beam is incident normally (θi = 0°) on the flat surface of a transparent glass block of refractive index n=1.5, and only the 96% of the incident power enters into the block. Which of the above quantities in (a) and (b) change for the transmitted light inside the glass block and what are the new values for the changed quantities.


The Attempt at a Solution



I really don't know where to start. Need help/hints for any parts. Thanks in advance!

You must know some equations that have to do with wavelength, frequency, period, and some of the other things being asked here :smile:
 
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