Description
Cambridge Laser Fundamentals South Asian Edition 2009 Edition by William T Silfvast
A well-known introduction to the physical and engineering principles of laser operation and design for graduates and researchers who specialize in lasers, this second edition includes much new material, especially in the areas of solid-state lasers, semiconductor lasers, and laser cavities. Throughout the text, this book uses simple explanations on key concepts, to lead the reader from the basics of laser action to advanced topics in laser physics and engineering. The new edition contains a new chapter on laser operation above threshold, including extensive discussion of laser amplifiers. Thorough explanations, worked examples, and many homework problems make this book essential reading for undergraduates and first-year graduates in science and engineering taking courses on lasers. Researchers will find summaries of key types of lasers, the use of many unique theoretical descriptions, and the extensive bibliography a valuable source of reference for their careers.Table of ContentsPreface to the first editionPreface to the second editionAcknowledgementsIntroductionPart I. Fundamental Wave Properties of Light:Wave nature of light - the interacting of light with materialsPart II. Fundamental Quantum Properties of Light:The particle nature of light - discrete energy levelsRadiative transitions and emission linewidthEnergy levels and radiative properties of molecules, liquids and solidsRadiation and thermal equilibrium - absorption and stimulated emissionPart III. Laser Amplifiers:Conditions for producing a laser - population inversions, gain, and gain saturationLaser oscillation above thresholdRequirements for obtaining population inversionsLaser pumping requirements and techniquesPart IV. Laser Resonators:Laser cavity modesStable laser resonators and Gaussian beamsSpecial laser cavities and cavity effectsPart V. Specific Laser Systems:Laser systems involving low-density gain mediaLaser systems involving high-density gain mediaPart VI. Frequency Multiplication of Laser Beams:Frequency multiplication of lasers and other non linear optical effectsAppendix