Describes the use of a laser pointer to measure the speed of light by incorporating the phase delay between a modulated split beam of light. (JRH)

Describes the use of free-electron lasers as a source of coherent radiation over a broad range of wavelengths from the far-infrared to the far-ultraviolet regions of the spectrum. Discusses some applications of these lasers, including medicine and strategic defense. (TW)

This article describes the basic physics of several types of holograms and discusses different recording materials in use. Current and possible future applications of holograms are described as well as their large-scale production. (Author)

Describes simple inexpensive modifications to existing equipment that facilitate the computerization of interference and diffraction experiments done in introductory laboratory courses. (JRH)

A procedure for measuring the speed of light using the assumption that the frequency of light remains unchanged as it moves from one medium to another is presented. A laser with a known wavelength and frequency in air was used as a light source. (KR)

Describes various methods of rendering visible the paths followed by a laser beam for direct viewing or for photographic purposes. (Author/GS)

Discusses the properties of laser light, reviews types of lasers, presents operating principles, and considers mechanical aspects of laser light production. Applications reviewed include spectroscopy, photochemical reaction initiation, and investigation of biological processes involving porphyrins. (JM)

Presents a quick, convenient method to determine the index of refraction as well as a unique application of the laser. (ZWH)

This is a textbook of Fourier optics for the classroom or self-study. Major topics included in the 38 chapters are: Huygens' principle and Fourier transforms; image formation; optical coherence theory; coherent imaging; image analysis; coherent noise; interferometry; holography; communication theory techniques; analog optical computing; phase…

Describes an experiment for recording holograms using a minimum of costly apparatus. Includes a description of apparatus and materials, the procedure for recording the hologram, the processing of the hologram, and the reconstruction of the image. (GS)

Investigates the effect of the nonuniform irradiance across a laser beam on diffraction of the beam, specifically the Fraunhofer diffraction of a laser beam with a Gaussian irradiance profile as it passes through a circular aperture. (GA)

The basic physical principles of dye lasers are discussed and used to analyze the design and operation of tunable dye lasers pumped by pulsed nitrogen lasers. Details of the design and construction of these dye lasers are presented. Some simple demonstration experiments are described. (BB)

Describes a solid etalon Fabry-Perot interferometer, discussing free spectral range, instrumental finesse, and temperature effects. Provides schematic of temperature control/display circuit. Explains use of 100 millimeter camera lens and 10 power micrometer eyepiece for resolving rings and measure diameters. (JM)

Describes the measurement of refractive index of laser light using a glass plate, prism, and a ruler. Discusses the application of Snell's law to the activity. (JM)

Examines techniques used to make ultrasensitive spectroscopic measurements. They include excitation, thermal lens, photo acoustic, and ionization spectroscopies. Guidelines and methods are provided for each technique; common uses and applications are explained. (DH)