How to Uncover the Beam of a Laser

Unlike a flashlight, the beam of a laser is highly concentrated. When pointed at a surface in clean air, all that can be seen of the laser is a small dot on the surface. However, if the air has enough particles in it, parts of the beam bounce off of these particles and back into our eyes, allowing us to see it. Just like in the movies, the invisible beam of the laser can then be uncovered.

Things You'll Need

• Laser pointer
• Hairspray

Instructions

1. Test the laser pointer to make sure it works. Point the laser pointer at a surface and press the button on the pointer. You should see a red dot on the surface.

2. Spray the hairspray in the air in front of you.

3. Shoot the laser pointer through the mist of the hairspray. A red beam should appear between the pointer and the nearest surface.

Tips & Warnings

• To make things easier, have a friend spray the hairspray while you shoot the laser pointer.

References

• Laser Pointer Forums