Introduction to Optics and Lasers in Engineering

In a very short period of time, lasers have advanced from a mere research interest to an increasingly useful, commercially available tool for material processing, precision measurements, surgery, communication, and entertainment. This book provides the background in theoretical physics necessary to understand the engineering applications of lasers. It summarizes relevant theories of geometrical optics, physical optics, quantum optics, and laser physics while tying them to applications in such areas as fluid mechanics, combustion, surface analysis, material processing, and laser machining. The author clearly and thoroughly explains advanced topics such as laser Doppler velocimetry, laser-induced fluorescence, and holography. The book includes numerous examples and advanced problems that simulate real-world research and encourage independent reading and analysis. The book will benefit researchers and students across all branches of engineering.

In a very short time, lasers advanced from research interest to increasingly useful, commercially available tools for material processing, precision measurements, surgery, communication, and even entertainment. This 1996 book provides the background in theoretical physics necessary to understand engineering applications. It summarises relevant theories of geometrical optics, physical optics, quantum optics, and laser physics and ties them to applications in such areas as fluid mechanics, combustion, surface analysis, material processing and laser machining. Advanced topics such as laser Doppler velocimetry, laser-induced fluorescence, and holography are clearly and thoroughly explained. The book includes numerous examples and homework problems. A unique feature is the advanced research problems in each chapter that simulate real-world research and encourage independent reading and analysis.

1. Radiometry; 2. Geometrical optics; 3. Maxwell's equations; 4. Properties of electromagnetic waves; 5. Propagation and applications of polarized light; 6. Interference effects and their applications; 7. Diffraction effects and their applications; 8. Introduction to the principles of quantum mechanics; 9. Atomic and molecular energy levels; 10. Radiative transfer between quantum states; 11. Spectroscopical techniques for thermodynamical measurements; 12. Optical gain and lasers; 13. Propagation of laser beams.

This 1996 book provides the background in theoretical physics and optics needed by engineers. Relevant theories are tied to a wide range of engineering applications. Advanced topics such as laser Doppler velocimetry, laser-induced fluorescence, and holography are clearly and thoroughly explained.