How monochromatic is laser light ?

Year: 1979

Authors: Jacobs S.F.

Autors Affiliation: Optical Sciences Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona USA;
Istituto Nazionale di Ottica, Largo E. Fermi 6, 50125 Firenze, Italy

Abstract: Two derivations of the fundamental laser linewidth are presented that have been used successfully in introductory courses. The cause of the finite linewidth is identified with phase fluctuations in the electric field due to spontaneous emission. A factor of 2 discrepancy between the energy and field analyses is explained. A number of ”back-of-the-envelope” relationships are derived that have proven useful in teaching this subject.

Journal/Review: AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICS

Volume: 47 (7)      Pages from: 597  to: 601

KeyWords: laser radiation; stimulated emission;
DOI: 10.1119/1.11761

Citations: 17
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