Unit 1

Review of some basic concepts and principle of laser

Introduction to light and its properties: Reflection, refraction, interference, diffraction and polarization. Photometry – calculation of solid angle. Brewster’s law. Snell’s law and, its analysis.

Introduction to LASERS: Interaction of radiation with matter – induced absorption, spontaneous emission, stimulated emission. Einstein’s co-efficient (derivation). Active material. Population inversion – concept and discussion about different techniques. Resonant cavity.

Unit 2

Properties of LASERS
Gain mechanism, threshold condition for PI (derivation), emission broadening – line width, derivation of FWHM natural emission line width as deduced by quantum mechanics – additional broadening process: collision broadening, broadening due to dephasing collision, amorphous crystal broadening, Doppler broadening in laser and broadening in gases due to isotope shifts. Saturation intensity of laser, condition to attain saturation intensity.

Properties – coherency, intensity, directionality, monochromaticity and focussibility. LASER transition – role of electrons in LASER transition, levels of LASER action: 2 level, 3 level and 4 level laser system

Unit 3

• William T Silfvast, “Laser Fundamentals”, Cambridge University Press, UK (2003).
• B B Laud, “Lasers and Non linear Optics”, New Age International (P) Ltd., New Delhi.
• Andrews, “An Introduction to Laser Spectroscopy (2e)”, Ane Books India (Distributors).
• K R Nambiar, “Lasers: Principles, Types and Applications”, New Age International (P) Ltd., New Delhi.
• T Suhara, “Semiconductor Laser Fundamentals”, Marcel Dekker (2004).