Rayleigh Length Calculator

Wavelength (λ) in meters: Beam Waist Diameter (w₀) in meters: Calculate Rayleigh Length (Zₒ) in meters:

Introduction

Calculating the Rayleigh length is crucial in optics and wave optics, providing insights into the beam divergence and focusability of a laser beam. The Rayleigh length, denoted as ZR​, is a measure of the distance over which the cross-sectional area of a focused laser beam remains relatively small.

How to Use

To calculate the Rayleigh length, input the wavelength (λ) and the beam waist diameter (w0​) into the calculator. Then, click the “Calculate” button to obtain the result.

Formula

The Rayleigh length (ZR​) is calculated using the following formula:

Example Solve

Suppose we have a laser beam with a wavelength (λ) of 650 nm and a beam waist diameter (w0​) of 2 mm. Plugging these values into the formula:

After performing the calculations, the Rayleigh length (ZR​) is obtained.

FAQ’s

Q1: Why is the Rayleigh length important in optics?
A1: The Rayleigh length helps determine the focusability and divergence of laser beams, crucial in various optical applications.

Q2: Can I use any unit for wavelength and beam waist diameter in the calculator?
A2: Yes, as long as you maintain consistent units, such as meters for both.

Q3: Is the provided JavaScript code compatible with all browsers?
A3: Yes, the code utilizes standard JavaScript and should work across modern browsers.

Conclusion

Understanding and calculating the Rayleigh length is essential in optics for optimizing laser beam performance. Utilize the provided calculator to simplify the process and obtain accurate results for your optical systems.