Max Power of 1.3cm Diameter Laser Beam Propagating Air

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In summary, the maximum power of a 1.3cm diameter laser beam propagating through air depends on various factors, and is typically limited to around 10 watts for a continuous-wave laser. As the beam travels through air, its power decreases due to absorption, scattering, and diffraction. Using a more powerful laser can increase the power of the beam, but may also result in higher levels of absorption, scattering, and diffraction. Some applications of a 1.3cm diameter laser beam propagating through air include laser cutting, welding, drilling, marking, communication, remote sensing, and defense. The power of the beam can be affected by factors such as the type of laser, atmospheric conditions, distance traveled, size and shape
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Linus Pauling
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1. The maximum electric field strength in air is 3.0 MV/m. Stronger electric fields ionize the air and create a spark. What is the maximum power that can be delivered by a 1.3 cm diameter laser beam propagating through air?



2. I = P/A = c*epsilon0*E2/2



3. Using E = 3*106 for E, I use the above equation to solve for I, obtaining 1.19*1010. Multiplying by area, using pi*r2 and r = 0.013m, I obtain 6.34*106, which is incorrect.
 
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  • #2
the diameter is 1.3cm so the radius is only .0065m
 
  • #3
****... thanks :(
 

Related to Max Power of 1.3cm Diameter Laser Beam Propagating Air

1. What is the maximum power of a 1.3cm diameter laser beam propagating through air?

The maximum power of a 1.3cm diameter laser beam propagating through air depends on several factors, such as the type of laser, the atmospheric conditions, and the distance the beam is traveling. In general, the maximum power of a laser beam is limited by the energy density at which the air can absorb the laser energy without breaking down into a plasma. For a typical continuous-wave laser, the maximum power of a 1.3cm diameter beam propagating through air is around 10 watts.

2. How does the power of a laser beam change as it propagates through air?

The power of a laser beam typically decreases as it propagates through air due to absorption, scattering, and diffraction. Absorption occurs when the air molecules absorb some of the laser energy, causing the beam to lose power. Scattering occurs when the laser beam is deflected by particles in the air, which also results in a decrease in power. Diffraction, on the other hand, causes the beam to spread out as it propagates, resulting in a decrease in power density. All of these factors contribute to a decrease in the power of a laser beam as it travels through air.

3. Can the power of a 1.3cm diameter laser beam be increased by using a more powerful laser?

Yes, using a more powerful laser can increase the power of a 1.3cm diameter laser beam. However, the increase in power may be limited by the energy density at which the air can absorb the laser energy without breaking down into a plasma. Additionally, using a more powerful laser may also result in higher levels of absorption, scattering, and diffraction, which can decrease the overall power of the beam.

4. What are some applications of a 1.3cm diameter laser beam propagating through air?

There are many applications of a 1.3cm diameter laser beam propagating through air, including laser cutting, laser welding, laser drilling, and laser marking. These applications are commonly used in industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, and medical technology. Additionally, laser beams can also be used for communication, remote sensing, and defense purposes.

5. What factors affect the power of a laser beam propagating through air?

The power of a laser beam propagating through air can be affected by several factors, including the type of laser, the atmospheric conditions, the distance the beam is traveling, and the size and shape of the beam. Other factors that may affect the power of the beam include the wavelength of the laser, the energy density of the beam, and the quality of the beam. Additionally, any obstructions or obstacles in the path of the beam can also affect its power as it propagates through the air.

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