Book 27, Question 110 · Video
What was the first laser made from?
The first working laser was built in 1960 by American scientist Theodore Maiman, using a rod of synthetic ruby crystal. A bright flash of light energized the atoms in the ruby. They sent out a red beam that was strong, pure, and straight. Today lasers use many materials, such as crystals, gases, and chips. They are used in surgery, scanners, and communications.
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What Crafty Clover says in this video
Intro
Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. What was the first laser made from?
The Big Idea
Lasers make super bright, straight beams! But the very first one was made from a gem. A ruby!
Maiman
Step one: Maiman. The first working laser was built in 1960 by American scientist Theodore Maiman. He used a rod of synthetic ruby crystal.
Red Beam
Step two: Red Beam. A bright flash of light energized the atoms in the ruby. They sent out a red beam that was strong, pure, and straight.
Lasers Today
Step three: Lasers Today. Today lasers use many materials, such as crystals, gases, and chips. They are used in surgery, scanners, and communications.
A Closer Look
Let's take a closer look! Ruby holds atoms. A flash energizes. Mirrors bounce light. A beam shoots out.
Quick Facts
Quick facts! Laser stands for light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation. First laser used ruby. Strong, pure, straight beam. Never look into lasers.
Think Like a Scientist
Now, think like a scientist! Draw a ruby rod. Add a mirror at each end. Draw light bouncing back and forth. Show the beam coming out. Label your drawing.
Outro
The first laser was built in 1960 by Theodore Maiman using a rod of synthetic ruby crystal. A flash energized the ruby's atoms, which sent out a strong, pure, straight red beam. Lasers now have many uses. Science is amazing! Keep asking questions! The more you look around, the more wonders you will find, so keep your eyes open! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!