Search
Menu
Meadowlark Optics - Wave Plates 6/24 LB 2024
Photonics Dictionary

mode beating

In optics, "mode beating" refers to an interference phenomenon that can occur in laser systems with multiple longitudinal modes. Longitudinal modes are specific electromagnetic field patterns that can exist within the resonant cavity of a laser.

When a laser emits light, it may support multiple longitudinal modes, each corresponding to a different resonance condition within the laser cavity. These modes can have slightly different frequencies or wavelengths. Mode beating occurs when these different modes interfere with each other, leading to intensity fluctuations or variations in the output of the laser.

The interference arises because the modes have different frequencies, and their superposition can result in constructive or destructive interference, causing the laser output to exhibit intensity variations over time. This phenomenon is particularly noticeable in lasers with a narrow linewidth, where the separation between adjacent modes is smaller.

Mode beating can have practical implications in applications where a stable and uniform laser output is crucial, such as in precision measurements or certain types of spectroscopy. Techniques like mode-locking or linewidth reduction may be employed to control or minimize mode beating in laser systems.
See Also
Related Terms


Explore Our Content
News
Features
Latest Products
Webinars
White Papers
All Things Photonics Podcast
Photonics Spectra Now
Videos
Our Summits & Conferences
Industry Events
Bookstore
Join Our Community
Subscribe
Advertise
Become a member
Sign in
Contribute a Feature
Suggest a Webinar
Submit a Press Release
Mobile Apps

About Us
Our Company
Our Publications
Contact Us
Career Opportunities
Teddi C. Laurin Scholarship

Terms & Conditions
Privacy Policy
California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA)



©2024 Photonics Media
100 West St.
Pittsfield, MA, 01201 USA
[email protected]
We use cookies to improve user experience and analyze our website traffic as stated in our Privacy Policy. By using this website, you agree to the use of cookies unless you have disabled them.