Analytical Aspects of Atomic Laser Spectrochemistry

Book excerpt: The development of a reliable, continuously tunable laser has produced a strong revival in atomic and molecular spectroscopy, allowing the more precise measurement of spectral wavelengths of transitions, the performance of various sorts of Doppler-free high-resolution spectroscopy and the collection of spectral information with high sensitivity from a small ensemble of particles. This review discusses the possibilities of the method and its inherent problems. Tunable lasers must be made easier to operate, more stable and less expensive. It is suggested that the semiconductor diode laser could be the solution to these problems, if it is properly developed.