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Lasers have revolutionized many aspects of chemical research over the past three decades. Yet laser-based experiments have been assimilated into the undergraduate program very slowly. There are a number of reasons including perceived cost, lack of on-site technical support, and faculty inexperience. All of these concerns can be quite effectively addressed.
A low cost, easily assembled apparatus has been developed that allows a number of the most exciting laser-based experiments to be performed for less than eight thousand dollars. The setup uses all commercial components, can be assembled with a screwdriver and Allen wrenches, can be stored in a shoe box, and reassembled in less than an hour. It requires only 8 sq. ft. (4' X 2') of bench space. Also, presented are a number of experiments which can be done using the apparatus and suggestions for a number of additional ones.
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