Sample interview questions: What are the key factors that determine the wavelength of laser light?
Sample answer:
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Energy level structure of the gain medium: The wavelength of the laser light is determined by the energy difference between two energy levels in the gain medium. The energy difference is usually determined by the material composition and crystal structure of the gain medium. For example, in a ruby laser, the energy difference between the two energy levels is provided by the absorption and emission of photons by chromium atoms in a ruby crystal.
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Resonator design: The wavelength of the laser light is also determined by the design of the laser resonator. The resonator consists of two mirrors that reflect the laser light back and forth, creating a standing wave pattern. The wavelength of the laser light is determined by the length of the resonator and the number of times the light bounces back and forth between the mirrors.
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Gain bandwidth: The gain bandwidth of the gain medium is the range of wavelengths over which the gain medium can amplify light. The gain ba… Read full answer