Can a High Power Laser Melt a Prism and How to Make a Reflective Missile?

In summary, if a high power laser is passed through a prism, it is possible for the prism to melt down if enough light is absorbed to heat the glass to its melting point. This can also happen if the glass has defects. However, when using high-powered lasers on a daily basis, precautions are taken to prevent premature aging of the optics. In the past, there was a proposal to use lasers from satellites to shoot down incoming missiles, but it was deemed ineffective as the missiles could be made more reflective than the movable mirrors used to guide the lasers. One way to achieve this is by putting mirrors on the missiles themselves.
  • #1
cgardhar
3
0
If we pass a really high power laser through a prism, is it possible that the prism melts down.
 
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  • #2
Yes - if the percentage of the light absorbed is enough to heat the glass to it's melting point then it will melt
 
  • #3
If the glass has defects, whether factory-made or "home-made" (...), it can overheat. When using high-powered lasers on a daily basis as we do, we have to wipe off the dust of all optics before turning on the beam, so it doesn't age prematurely.

www.gentec-eo.com
 
  • #4
Several decades ago (even before Reagan's star wars program) there was a proposal to shoot down incoming missiles with lasers from a satellite. Scientific American evaluated that proposal and showed that it could be easily defeated. The lasers would have to be guided by a movable mirror and if the missile was nearly as reflective as the mirror, the mirror would always be destroyed before the missile.
 
  • #5
how does one make a missile more reflective than 'a mirror'? whose sole purpose is to be reflective?
 
  • #6
benmww said:
how does one make a missile more reflective than 'a mirror'? whose sole purpose is to be reflective?
Put mirrors on the missile.
 

Related to Can a High Power Laser Melt a Prism and How to Make a Reflective Missile?

1. Can a laser melt a prism?

Yes, a laser can melt a prism. This process is known as laser ablation, where the intense energy from the laser causes the material of the prism to vaporize and melt.

2. What type of laser is needed to melt a prism?

The type of laser needed to melt a prism depends on the material of the prism. In general, a high-powered laser with a high energy density is required to melt a prism.

3. What is the temperature required to melt a prism with a laser?

The temperature required to melt a prism with a laser can vary depending on the material of the prism. However, in general, temperatures above the melting point of the material are needed for laser ablation to occur.

4. Can a laser melt all types of prisms?

No, a laser cannot melt all types of prisms. The material of the prism is a critical factor in determining if a laser can melt it. Some prisms, such as those made of glass, may not be easily melted by a laser.

5. Is it safe to use a laser to melt a prism?

No, it is not safe to use a laser to melt a prism without proper training and safety precautions. Laser ablation can produce intense heat and vaporized material, which can be hazardous to the user and those nearby. It is essential to follow safety guidelines and wear appropriate protective gear when using lasers for ablation purposes.

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