Laser Experiments for Chemistry and Physics

Lasers are employed throughout science and technology in fundamental research the remote sensing of atmospheric gases or pollutants communications medical diagnostics and therapies and the manufacturing of microelectronic devices. Understanding the principles of their operation which<br>underlie all of these areas is essential for a modern scientific education. This text introduces the characteristics and operation of lasers through laboratory experiments designed for the undergraduate curricula in Chemistry and Physics. Introductory chapters describe the properties of light <br>the history of laser invention the atomic molecular and optical principles behind how lasers work and the kinds of lasers available today. Other chapters include the basic theory of spectroscopy and computational chemistry used to interpret laser experiments. Experiments range from simple<br>in-class demonstrations to more elaborate configurations for advanced students. Each chapter has historical and theoretical background as well as options suggested for variations on the prescribed experiments. The text will be useful for undergraduates students in advanced lab classes for<br>instructors designing these classes or for graduate students beginning a career in laser science.