1. What is Gaussian Laser Line Width?

The Gaussian laser line width represents the width of a laser beam where the intensity falls to 1/e² of its maximum value. For a line focus, this width is related to the beam waist (w₀) by a factor of 1/√2.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Gaussian beam equation for line width:

Where:

• \( w_0 \) — Beam waist radius (meters)
• \( \sqrt{2} \) — Constant factor for line width conversion

Explanation: The equation accounts for the transformation from circular beam waist to line focus width in Gaussian beam optics.

3. Importance of Line Width Calculation

Details: Accurate line width calculation is crucial for laser applications like lithography, laser cutting, and optical measurements where precise beam dimensions are required.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the beam waist (w₀) in meters. The value must be positive and non-zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the beam waist (w₀)?
A: The beam waist is the minimum radius of a Gaussian beam where the intensity is highest.

Q2: How does this differ from spot size?
A: Spot size typically refers to circular beams, while line width refers to one dimension of a focused line.

Q3: When is this calculation most useful?
A: For applications using cylindrical lenses to create line foci, like laser scribing or sheet illumination.

Q4: Does wavelength affect the line width?
A: Wavelength affects the beam waist (w₀) but not the line width conversion factor shown here.

Q5: What about non-Gaussian beams?
A: This calculation only applies to fundamental mode Gaussian beams (TEM₀₀ mode).