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Physics

Laser Cavity

Quick fact

In a typical laser, the light bounces between the mirrors hundreds of thousands of times per second before escaping, ensuring that only light waves perfectly in sync (in phase) are amplified, resulting in a highly coherent beam.

Why this is interesting

You've seen laser pointers and barcode scanners, but what makes laser light so special? The secret lies in a simple yet ingenious component: the laser cavity, a pair of mirrors that turn ordinary light into a powerful, focused beam.