Laser Beam Characteristics Calculation

When analyzing the characteristics of a laser beam, we focus on three key properties: divergence, Rayleigh range, and beam width. These aspects play a crucial role in determining the behavior and performance of the laser beam in various applications.

Divergence

The divergence of a laser beam refers to the spread of the beam as it propagates away from its source. In the case of a HeNe laser beam at 633 nm with a spot size of 0.8 mm, the divergence is calculated to be 2.512 x 10^-4 radians. This value indicates the extent to which the laser beam spreads out over distance.

Rayleigh Range

The Rayleigh range defines the distance over which the cross-sectional area of a Gaussian beam doubles. For the HeNe laser beam mentioned, the Rayleigh range is approximately 1.26 meters. This parameter is essential for determining the focus and efficiency of the laser beam over varying distances.

Beam Width

The beam width at a specific distance from the laser source provides insight into the size of the beam at that particular point. At a distance of 10 meters from the HeNe laser, the beam width is found to be around 6.35 mm. This value helps in understanding how the beam spreads out and interacts with its surroundings at different distances.