What Is the Difference Between a Beam of Light & a Laser?

Light is the portion of electromagnetic radiation that is visible to our eyes. A laser is a special, highly focused, narrow and powerful beam of light. Lasers are used in a variety of industries.

Features

Light is made up of particles called photons that travel in waves. Ordinary light is emitted in every direction at once and the photons travel at different wavelengths and frequencies. Laser light is emitted in one direction and the photons travel at the same wavelength and frequency.

Function

Lasers are created with a process called stimulated emission. In this process energy is added to a liquid, solid or gas medium until its atoms begin releasing photons. The photons bounce back and forth between a fully reflective mirror and a partially reflective mirror, stimulating the release of more photons. The light that isn't reflected is released as a concentrated beam.

Uses

Lasers can transmit large amounts of energy and information over a great distance. Lasers transmit information along fiber-optic cable, guide missiles and help contractors ensure that walls, ceilings and floors are properly aligned. They are also used for manufacturing CDs and DVDs, cutting metal and delicate surgery.

References

• Encyclopedia.com: Laser
• Encyclopedia.com: Photon
• Encyclopedia.com: Light