A mode-locking laser is a type of laser that generates extremely short pulses of light, often in the picosecond (10^-12 seconds) or femtosecond (10^-15 seconds) range. This phenomenon occurs when the laser's longitudinal modes are synchronized or "locked" in phase, allowing for the constructive interference of light waves at specific intervals. The result is a train of high-energy, ultra-short pulses rather than a continuous wave. Mode-locking can be achieved using various techniques, such as saturable absorbers or external cavities. These lasers are widely used in applications such as spectroscopy, medical imaging, and telecommunications, where precise timing and high peak powers are essential.
Start your personalized study experience with acemate today. Sign up for free and find summaries and mock exams for your university.