Thinking of cliche sci-fi laser guns. How much power (in watts) would it take for a laser beam to pierce through a human skull or sternum in a millisecond or less?
2006-10-04 09:22:27 · 3 answers · asked by Logan 5 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Physics
Although it does seem silly, a laser-pistol could be made if battery/capacitor technology was ten-fold better.
Consider that the laser itself is very much up to the task of dispensing a small amount of energy in an extremely short amount of time.
Compare the muzzle-energy of a bullet. It is not very much.
If 1000 Joules would do it in 100 microseconds that is 10 MW, but only for 100 microseconds...
There are 3600 times this amount of energy in a single kWh, which is about a dime's worth in most towns.
Hmmm...I think I'll build one in the shop tonight.
2006-10-04 09:34:19 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Hi. The smaller and more concentrated the beam, the less total energy would be needed. Science News had two recent articles, one about the tightest focus yet achieved (40 micrometers) and a new way to build a laser onto silicon. Who knows? A small hole could be made in even less time.
2006-10-04 10:01:14 · answer #2 · answered by Cirric 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
lightsaber, about one double A battery, all u need to do is concentrate light to kill someone.
2006-10-04 09:29:21 · answer #3 · answered by sur2124 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋