Photonics

by Gunkriti Kaur, edited by Anvitha Mattapalli, Jeeth Parikh, & Nitya Baratam, Layout by Vrinda Gandhi

Photonics is the science or the technology that deals with light. The fact that light has a dual nature plays an essential role in that we have the magnetic currents and as well as the source of beams that provide us the path to view. Light exists as a wave; electromagnetic wave characteristics and particles; particles of light are known as photons.

The word photonics is derived from the Greek word “pho” meaning light. Researchers wanted to find a new technology that used light in a more practical way, but the original goal was to use light as an alternative for performing the functions of electronics. This technology has been around for over 150 years, but only arrived in 1960.

Photonics is quite a new and separate field that began with the discovery of lasers. Lasers are considered as one of the crucial pillars for the telecommunication industry. With time, photonics have evolved into almost all areas of research and is a crucial aspect of technology for scientific discoveries.

What is the main purpose of photonics?

The technology of platonics connects the use of light in a more practical way for the world to consume it. The new discoveries and production of innovative creations take place with the help of photonics.

For example, this lightwave technology is used for crucial eye surgeries that are in the medical field. Moreover, since the Covid-19 pandemic started, it was observed that the high demand for increasing the internet bandwidth was reluctant.

Why is photonics important for the growing sources of technology?

With the existing technology, not only can the needs be fulfilled by photonics, but it is also used in the medical field or the telecommunication field. The demand for laser technology is in higher demand due to the pandemic as the electromagnetic wave and high frequency of light can help in passing the connection without the use of metal wirings or fiber cables. Laser technology is also in a high rise for diagnosing many diseases and is used for surgeries.

Light technology is playing a crucial role in revolutionising the economic and technological sectors of the world. This technology is helping discover new and innovative sustainable resources.

Applications of Photonics

These devices have a wide range of effects. For example, photonics is a very important resource for telecommunication. Lighting that is used in our house is a form of laser beams, especially in LED lights, compact light sensors etc.

Photonics, as a form of technology, has a lot more to be developed and is still being researched on. Many scientists are working on discovering more of its applications to make use of it in the real world with practical logics.