Laser beams and light bulbs

Have you ever wondered what makes the difference between a light bulb and a laser? How can a medium power laser burn through steel in a matter of second while the most powerful spotlight can only make it warm? The difference is unity.

A laser can be simply described as a medium of excited molecules with mirrors on each end. Some of the excited molecules naturally decay into a less excited state. In the decay process they release a photon, a particle of light. It is here that the most unique process of the laser begins. The photon moves along and "tickles" another molecule, inviting another photon to join him on his journey. Then, these two photons "tickle" two more molecules, and invite two more photons to join the parade. Soon there is a huge army marching in step with each other. It is this unity that gives power to the laser.

A light bulb may have just as many photons, but each is going its own independent way, intereffing with the other photons. As a result, much of the power is wasted and cannot be focused to do any useful work. However, because of its unity, the laser is luke an army marching in tight formation, and is able to focus all of its power on its objective.