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Questions and Answers
What are the fundamental objectives of laser training?
What are the fundamental objectives of laser training?
Identify standards governing the use of lasers in the Air Force, principles of laser operations, and classes of laser systems. Describe common laser technologies and sources and associated beam and non-beam hazards.
What characterizes a Class 1 laser?
What characterizes a Class 1 laser?
What is the unique aspect of Class 1M lasers?
What is the unique aspect of Class 1M lasers?
They are considered incapable of producing hazardous exposure conditions during normal operation unless viewed with collecting optics.
Class 2 lasers are strong enough to damage a person's eye under normal operation.
Class 2 lasers are strong enough to damage a person's eye under normal operation.
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What is the maximum output of a continuous wave (CW) Class 3R laser?
What is the maximum output of a continuous wave (CW) Class 3R laser?
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What distinguishes Class 4 lasers from other classes?
What distinguishes Class 4 lasers from other classes?
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What does LASER stand for?
What does LASER stand for?
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Which of the following describes the components of a laser?
Which of the following describes the components of a laser?
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The process of energy emitted in the form of radiation is called ______.
The process of energy emitted in the form of radiation is called ______.
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Radiant Power is measured in ______.
Radiant Power is measured in ______.
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What is a characteristic of monochromatic laser light?
What is a characteristic of monochromatic laser light?
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Study Notes
Laser Fundamental Objectives
- Recognize standards for laser use in the Air Force.
- Understand principles of laser operations and classifications.
- Identify common laser technologies, hazards, and safety measures.
Class 1
- Class 1 lasers cannot emit harmful laser radiation at normal operation levels.
- Safety is ensured through very low power or fully enclosed beams.
Class 1M
- Class 1M lasers are safe under normal conditions unless viewed through optics.
- Exempt from extensive safety control measures apart from preventing optical aided viewing.
Class 2
- Class 2 lasers emit in the visible spectrum (400 to 700 nm) and are low power.
- Considered safe due to the aversion response; users typically blink and turn away when exposed.
Class 2M
- Class 2M lasers, a subclass of Class 2, are low power and visible.
- Hazardous under optical viewing; continuous wave limit is 500 nW.
Class 3R
- Class 3R lasers are intermediate power and may be hazardous under direct or specular reflections.
- Maximum power output of 5 mW in the visible region.
Class 3B
- Class 3B lasers can be hazardous under direct and specular reflections.
- Power range from 5 mW to 500 mW; pulsed systems limited to 0.125 J.
Class 4
- Class 4 lasers are high power, hazardous to eyes and skin from direct exposure.
- Potential risks include diffuse reflections, fire hazards, and toxic air contaminants.
LASER
- Acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation.
Laser Components
- Pumping System: Source of power for exciting the lasing medium.
- Lasing Medium: Determines the laser's wavelength; can be a gas, crystal, or chemical.
- Optical Cavity: Contains the lasing medium and mirrors that amplify the laser beam.
Beam Characteristics
- Monochromatic: Emits a single color.
- Coherent: Waves travel in phase.
- Collimated: Beams travel in one direction.
- Laser can operate continuously or in pulses, measured in watts or joules.
Modes of Operation - Terms and Units
- Radiant Energy (Q): Energy emitted as radiation, measured in joules (J).
- Radiant Power (Φ): Power of emitted radiation, measured in watts (W).
- Radiant Exposure (H): Energy density on a surface, measured in J/cm².
- Irradiance (E): Power density on a surface, measured in W/cm².
- Divergence Angle (φ): Rate of beam spread, measured in milliradians (mrad); 1 mrad means a 1 mm expansion per meter.
Standards & Regulations
- Numerous regulatory agencies influence laser standards and safety practices.
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Description
This quiz focuses on the fundamental objectives of lasers, particularly within the context of Air Force standards and requirements. It covers various classes of laser systems, common technologies, and potential hazards associated with laser operations. Test your knowledge on these essential laser concepts and classifications.
