by Wirnani Garner
Laser pointers are small devices that produce lasers which are usually used in boardroom or classroom situations. These useful electronics use a small beam of light to highlight things of interest. Like their name suggests, they use lasers to point at things. Although the beam from a laser pointer cannot be seen from the side, it can be visible if dust or other particles are scattered in the path of the light. Most of the light remains focused on a point at the end of the beam, making lasers perfect for pointing at objects.
How does a laser pointer work?
A laser pointer is essentially a small laser which emits light through stimulated emission in a narrow, low-divergence beam or converts light into a low-divergence beam using lenses. Pointers aren't very powerful lasers which allows them to be suitable for everyday use. Lasers are coherent light, which means that their light waves have the same frequency and phase unlike other light sources which emit incoherent light with varied phases. Although lasers usually emit monochromatic light, some lasers are able to emit a broad spectrum of light or multiple distinct wavelengths of light simultaneously.
Are laser pointers dangerous?
While not dangerous if used correctly, there is potential for accidental damage to the retina of the eye occurring if the laser pointer is shone directly into someone's eyes. However, exposure to lasers is usually limited by a person's eye blink reflex and thus, it is unlikely to cause any lasting harm to a person. Different countries have different regulations as to what type of laser pointers can be sold, which depends on how dangerous they view laser pointers to be to the general public. In Australia and the United States, annual output of laser pointers is strictly regulated and the strength of the laser used in the pointers is also limited. There are strict regulations on the sale and production of laser pointers because they can be misused to dazzle and/or distract aircraft pilots and drivers.
What is the best color for a laser pointer?
The color of laser pointer that you choose really just depends on your personal preference. Laser pointers come in red, green, blue and yellow. Green lasers are usually the most visible because the human eye sees the green color more efficiently than other colors. However, although the green laser seems brighter, all laser pointers will emit beams of similar power.
