The strength of early lasers was measured in gillettes the number of blue razor blades a given beam could puncture

The Strength of Early Lasers: Measured in Gillettes

In the early years of laser development, a rather peculiar unit of measurement was used to determine their power and effectiveness. The strength of these nascent lasers was measured in Gillettes - referring to the number of blue razor blades a given laser beam could puncture. This unconventional measurement system may sound unusual, but it served as a practical and relatable way to gauge the power of lasers in their early stages.

Laser technology emerged in the 1960s, and scientists were continuously striving to understand the capabilities and potential applications of these newfound light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation devices. At the time, measuring laser power in watts or joules did not necessarily convey the true impact of the laser’s abilities. Hence, researchers sought a more tangible and easily understandable means of measurement.

The Gillette razor blade, a commonly known object, served as an apt reference point. As the story goes, a laser’s strength was determined by its capacity to pierce or “cut through” a certain number of razor blades, specifically blue Gillette razor blades. The choice of Gillettes as the unit of measurement was likely due to their widespread popularity and recognition among the general public.

It is important to note that the number of Gillettes a laser could puncture was not the sole factor determining its overall power. The beam had to be focused and concentrated sufficiently to achieve the desired outcome. Therefore, the Gillette measurement was not universally applicable across all lasers, but rather specific to the capabilities of a given laser.

As laser technology advanced and became more sophisticated, the Gillette measurement system eventually faded into obscurity. It was replaced by more precise and standardized units of measurement such as watts and joules, which accurately quantified the output power of lasers. These new measurement standards allowed for more precise and scientific comparisons between different laser devices.

In retrospect, the use of Gillettes as a unit of measurement for laser strength may seem somewhat whimsical. However, it served as a relatable benchmark during the early days of laser development when the technology was not yet fully understood by the general public. Today, lasers have evolved to become indispensable tools in various fields, including medicine, telecommunications, manufacturing, and scientific research.

In conclusion, the measurement of laser strength in Gillettes - the number of blue razor blades a laser beam could puncture - was a fascinating chapter in the history of laser technology. This quirky measurement system provided relatability and a sense of context to an otherwise complex and abstract concept. Although the Gillette measurement system has now been replaced by more precise units, it stands as a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of early laser scientists.

Source: Science Daily