How Lasers Work

The podcast explores the science and applications of lasers, beginning with the acronym "Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation" and the differences between laser light and regular light. It covers the three main differences of laser light: single wavelength, coherence, and collimation. The hosts discuss Einstein's theoretical groundwork for stimulated emission and the construction of the first functional laser by Theodore Myman in 1960 using a ruby crystal. The conversation also covers the five main types of lasers—solid-state, gas, fiber, liquid, and diode—detailing their various gain mediums and applications, from tattoo removal to telecommunications. The episode further examines the development of powerful lasers for studying extreme conditions like those inside black holes and the potential of nuclear fusion, as well as more pedestrian uses of lasers.