Light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation, commonly known as LASER, is a technology that harnesses the principles of quantum mechanics to produce a highly concentrated and coherent beam of light. The process begins with the stimulation of atoms or molecules within a gain medium, which can be a gas, liquid, or solid material. When these excited particles return to their lower energy state, they emit photons through a process called spontaneous emission. In a laser, however, this process is amplified through the introduction of additional photons, stimulating further emission and creating a cascade effect.
The result is a beam of light characterized by its monochromaticity, directionality, and high intensity. These unique properties make lasers indispensable in a wide range of applications, from medical surgeries and telecommunications to scientific research and industrial manufacturing. The acronym LASER encapsulates the fundamental concept: the amplification of light through the precise control of stimulated emissions, enabling diverse and groundbreaking technological advancements.