<ul><li>Researchers have discovered that, under special conditions, a laser beam can cast a visible shadow, challenging our understanding of light and shadows.</li><li>Using a ruby crystal and two laser beams of different colors, the researchers observed that when the green laser entered the crystal, it changed the crystal's response to the blue light, creating a shadow where the green laser blocked the blue light.</li><li>This effect is a result of a nonlinear optical process, where the green laser changes the crystal's absorption of the blue light, creating a shadow that matches the shape of the green laser beam.</li><li>This discovery has the potential to advance optical devices and technologies, such as optical switches and precise control of light in high-power laser applications.</li></ul>

Light meets its match: scientists discover lasers can cast shadows

Discover more