1.  Home
  2. Whitepapers
  3. Laser Beam Spatial Profiles

Laser Beam Spatial Profiles

Download Whitepaper

Laser Beam Spatial Profiles

Download Whitepaper
The irradiance distribution of a laser beam is determined by the transverse modes that exit the laser cavity. Typically, the lowest-order transverse mode (TEM00) is selected for emission since it propagates with the least beam divergence and can be focused to the tightest spot. The irradiance distribution of this TEM00 mode is described by a Gaussian function and therefore much of this section details a Gaussian beam's profile as well as its evolution with distance. Gaussian beam propagation is well understood and even laser beams that do not possess a TEM00 mode are often described using a modified Gaussian mode analysis using its M-Squared value. Finally, a brief description of non-Gaussian beams is also given.

Download Whitepaper Now