What was used as the pumping source for Maiman's first solid-state laser?

Answer

high-intensity photographic flash lamp

To achieve the necessary population inversion in the solid-state ruby crystal—exciting the chromium ions from their ground state to a higher energy level—a substantial and immediate surge of energy was required, as a continuous light source was not sufficient for this initial demonstration. Maiman employed a high-intensity photographic flash lamp, which was wrapped directly around the ruby rod. This flash lamp provided the massive, brief pulse of energy necessary to push the laser medium across the threshold for lasing action. This pragmatic engineering solution contrasted with the more complex continuous-wave systems pursued by others, highlighting the effectiveness of using intense, pulsed energy for the initial solid-state proof of concept.

What was used as the pumping source for Maiman's first solid-state laser?

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The world's first laser was successfully operated by Theodore Maiman

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