Physics of the free-electron laser
Abstract
The characteristics and operation of an FEL are described. An FEL is accelerated by the wiggler, and the frequency at which an FEL operates is determined by the wiggler period, the electron energy, and wiggler magnetic field. The effects of a wiggler on electrons are studied. Electron bunching, which is essential to the operation of an FEL, and tapering of the wiggler to prevent the electron bunches from reabsorbing light energy are examined. Graphs of simulated electron bunching at various stages of gain and tapering are presented.
- Publication:
-
Energy Technology Review
- Pub Date:
- December 1986
- Bibcode:
- 1986EnTR.........8.
- Keywords:
-
- Electron Bunching;
- Free Electron Lasers;
- Coherent Light;
- Synchrotron Radiation;
- Wiggler Magnets;
- Lasers and Masers