What is the significance of laser beam divergence?

The significance of laser beam divergence lies in its effect on how the energy is distributed over the treatment area. When a laser beam diverges, it spreads out as it travels, which means that the energy output is distributed over a larger surface area. This characteristic is crucial in laser treatments because it influences the intensity of energy that reaches the tissue being treated.

If the beam diverges too much, less energy is concentrated on the target area, which may lead to insufficient treatment. Conversely, minimal divergence allows for a more focused beam that can deliver higher energy to a specific spot, which can be beneficial in various medical and aesthetic applications. Therefore, understanding beam divergence is essential for optimizing treatment efficacy and ensuring desired outcomes in laser procedures.