How They Work:

Step #1 Exciting the Atoms:

First the energy is stored in a lasing medium, which is either solid, liquid, or gas. The energy in the medium ''revs up'' the atoms, also raising them to a energy state. Then the atom releases a ray of light.

Step # 2 Light builds up:

The ray of light from the atom hits another atom, causing it to also make a ray of light. These rays of light then hit more "rev'd up" atoms, and the process pf light production grows. The mirrors at the end of the laser reflect the rays of light so that more and more " rev'd up " atoms release light.

Step # 3 Here comes the light:

Every " rev'd up " atom produces a light ray, the ray vibrates in step with the ray of light that hits the atom. When the rays of light are in step, the beam becomes bright enough to pass through the semi-silvered mirror and leave the laser. The energy is released as laser light..

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