optical pumping

American  

noun

Physics, Optics.

1. a method for increasing the number of atoms or molecules occupying higher energy levels by irradiating them with light of the proper frequencies to raise them to those levels.

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Etymology

Origin of optical pumping

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

Energy input can be from a flash tube, electrical discharge, or other sources, in a process sometimes called optical pumping.

From Textbooks • Aug. 12, 2015