Peacock Feathers Can Amplify Light into Laser Beams, Study Reveals
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Summary
Researchers discovered that peacock feathers contain tiny reflective structures capable of amplifying light into a laser beam. By dyeing the feathers and energizing them with an external light source, they observed the emission of narrow yellow-green laser beams. Published in Scientific Reports, this study marks the first example of a laser cavity in the animal kingdom.
Key quotes
· 3 pulledPeacocks have a secret hidden in their brightly colored tail feathers: tiny reflective structures that can amplify light into a laser beam.
After dyeing the feathers and energizing them with an external light source, researchers discovered they emitted narrow beams of yellow-green laser light.
They say the study, published this month in Scientific Reports, offers the first example of a laser cavity in the animal kingdom.
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