By Cruz Lena
If you love Sci-fi movies, you probably know about lasers. It may appear as fantasy, but there’s some truth behind lasers shown in those movies. However, there are probably some things that you also don’t know about lasers. The next time you buy any laser equipment from The Laser Trader, ensure you know some of these cool things about lasers.
- They’re Over 50 Years Old
Although lasers may seem to be a recent invention, they’ve been around for more than half a century. The first laser was created in 1960, and in 1964, the movie Goldfinger used a laser beam in its scenes. When lasers were first used in this film, they were given extensive capabilities. Since then, lasers have been applied in different industries and used for various purposes.
Lasers are widely used for cutting tools because they’re more accurate and precise than other devices like scissors and knives. Currently, the clothing industry is using robot-guided lasers to cut fabric.
Lasers are also used in medicine. Doctors use them to treat tumours and cauterize blood vessels. Also, they’re used in cosmetic and eye surgery to treat various conditions.
The communication industries also uses lasers a lot. When you’re browsing the internet, several photonics are transmitted enabling you to send information across the web.
- Laser Is An Acronym
Most people don’t know that laser is an acronym for Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation. An in-depth history of the laser will show you that it has some connection to Albert Einstein. Despite its invention’s early signs, it later took about 5 decades for a working laser to be invented.
- Lasers Began As Masers
Most people are confused about this fact but it’s actually true. Before the term laser was developed, some scientists called them masers. Maser is an acronym for Microwave Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. They were invented by Charles Townes and Arthur Schawlow.
They resemble lasers but they use microwaves instead of light. Microwaves are composed of electromagnetic wave lengths that fall on longer wavelengths. Because of this, they’re less dangerous. Both masers and lasers produce protons when stimulated. Masers are commonly used in atomic clocks using hydrogen gas.
- Lasers Have Different Classes
Most people aren’t aware that lasers can be categorized into various classes. These classes were formed based on their potential to cause harm. Laser classes include 1, 2, 3R, 3B, and 4. 1 and 2 aren’t harmful but may affect the eyes, while 3B and 4 are very dangerous and can cause a fire. However, you don’t have to worry if you’re handling lasers because each class you’ll encounter will be labelled. Despite that, you still need to equip yourself with adequate knowledge about lasers.
- The Military Also Use Lasers
Lasers have proved to be a valuable training device for the military. It helps them to practice aiming and firing and also how to shield their bodies in a war. However, some military groups are no longer using it but have replaced it with paint ball because it’s a safer way of simulating battles.
Conclusion
Lasers are an incredible technology that have various uses. Unfortunately, people know little about them. These are some of the cool things you should know about lasers.
