Laser and Optical Fiber Syllabus

Laser light is highly directional, while ordinary light spreads all over the space

Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation

It is a single wavelength, i.e. it is a monochromatic source of light

Material, refractive index and number of modes

Eye Surgery

Population inversion is the situation where more atoms or molecules exist in higher energy states than in lower energy states. In the context of laser operation, population inversion is necessary to achieve stimulated emission and amplify the light signal. It allows the laser to produce a concentrated beam of coherent light.

Optical fibers can be classified based on the material used (e.g., glass or plastic), refractive index profile (e.g., step-index or graded-index), and the number of modes supported (e.g., single-mode or multi-mode fibers). The structure typically consists of a core, cladding, and protective coating.

Numerical aperture (NA) is a measure of the light-gathering ability of an optical fiber. It determines the range of acceptance angles for incoming light and influences the fiber's ability to capture and transmit light signals effectively. A higher NA generally corresponds to better light-capturing capability.

Laser technology finds diverse applications, including barcode reading, laser printing, optical communication, eye surgery, dental drilling, industrial cutting, welding, drilling, and diamond industry processes. For instance, lasers are used in precision cutting of materials and in medical procedures such as LASIK eye surgery.

Laser light is highly directional and does not spread, unlike ordinary light. It is monochromatic, consisting of a single wavelength, and exhibits high coherence, with all wavelengths in phase. In contrast, ordinary light spreads in all directions, comprises multiple wavelengths, and lacks the coherence of laser light.