Picture Page: Lasers
Laser and Incandescent Light
White light, such as that produced by an incandescent bulb, is composed
of many colors of light—each with a different wavelength—and spreads out
in all directions. Laser light consists of a single color (a single
wavelength) and moves in one direction with the peaks and troughs of its
waves in lockstep.
Laser Welder
High power lasers are used in industry to weld together large pieces
of hard metals. These lasers can produce temperatures above 5,500 C
(about 10,000 F).
Laser Light
Intense green and red beams of argon and neodymium laser light
cross a room, their paths changing direction sharply as they
strike mirrors. Scientists use the unique properties of laser
light to perform experiments that were previously impossible.
