What does the acronym 'laser' stand for?

The acronym 'laser' stands for "Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation." This definition encapsulates the fundamental principle behind how a laser operates. In essence, lasers generate coherent light through a process where atoms or molecules are stimulated to emit photons, which are then amplified to produce a concentrated beam of light.

This process is crucial in applications ranging from medical procedures to laser cutting, communication technologies, and various scientific research areas. Understanding the correct terminology is vital, as it reflects the underlying physics that allow lasers to be utilized effectively in many fields.