Quantum Theory of a Steady State Laser

TL;DR

This paper develops a quantum theoretical model of steady-state laser operation, describing laser action as a Bose-Einstein-like condensation in a coupled system of molecules and radiation, highlighting the quantum nature of lasing.

Contribution

It introduces a quantum system model for steady-state laser action, paralleling biological energy storage theories, and describes lasing as a Bose-Einstein-like condensation.

Findings

Laser action modeled as Bose-Einstein condensation.

Critical pump power needed for lasing threshold.

Quantum system approach unifies laser and biological energy storage theories.

Abstract

A theory of Steady-State laser action is presented which loosely parallels the treatment by H. Frohlich on energy storage in biological systems. The principal lasing elements, taken as N bio level molecules and a single mode quantized radiation field are treated as a single quantum system. Laser action then is seen as a Bose-Einstein like condensation into the lowest energy mode of this correlated system when the pump power exceeds a certain critical value.