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Physics

Population Inversion

Quick fact

In a typical gas laser, only about 1% of the atoms are in the excited state at any time—yet that tiny fraction can create a powerful, focused beam because of population inversion.

Why this is interesting

You've seen lasers in barcode scanners and laser pointers, but have you ever wondered what makes laser light so special and powerful? The secret lies in a counterintuitive state called population inversion.