TEACHING PHYSICS WITH 670-NM DIODE-LASERS - CONSTRUCTION OF STABILIZED LASERS AND LITHIUM CELLS

We describe the construction and operation of stabilized 670 nm diode lasers for use in undergraduate teaching labs. Because they emit low-power visible radiation, 670 nm lasers are safe and aesthetically pleasing, and thus are an attractive alternative to near-infrared diode lasers in the undergraduate laboratory. We also describe the fabrication of a robust and reliable lithium atomic vapor cell, which can be used with the 670 nm diode lasers to perform a variety of atomic physics experiments. (C) 1995 American Association of Physics Teachers.