Sample interview questions: Can you explain the difference between continuous-wave and pulsed lasers?
Sample answer:
Continuous-wave (CW) lasers and pulsed lasers are two different types of laser systems that produce light in distinct ways.
CW lasers emit a continuous beam of light with a constant intensity over time. This means that the laser operates continuously, without any interruptions or breaks. CW lasers are typically used when a steady and constant source of laser light is required, such as in scientific experiments, medical procedures, or telecommunications. The continuous nature of CW lasers allows for precise control of the laser power, making them suitable for applications that demand stability and accuracy.
On the other hand, pulsed lasers emit light in short bursts or pulses with a high peak power and a specific pulse duration. These pulses can range from femtoseconds (10^-15 seconds) to milliseconds (10^-3 seconds) in duration, depending on the laser system. Pulsed lasers are preferred for applications that require high peak power, as the intense pulses can deliver a large amount of energy in a short period. This makes pulsed lasers particularly useful in areas like laser material processing, laser ablation, and scientific research where precise control over the interaction between the laser and the target material is crucial.
The key difference between CW and pulsed lasers lies in their temporal characteristics. While CW lasers emit a constant beam of light, pulsed lasers deliver energy in discrete packets during each pulse. This difference in operation affects various laser properties, such as average power, peak power, d… Read full answer