Soliton:
- (physics, mathematics) A self-reinforcing pulse or travelling wave caused by any non-linear effect (found in many physical systems).
Synonyms: carrier wave (obsolete), solitary wave, wave of translation [Wiktionary]
Noted in “The US Army is building the most powerful laser weapon in the world,” David Hambling, NewScientist (27 February 2021, paywall):
Normal lasers are ineffective over long distances because the beam spreads out, but ultrashort pulses can be shaped into self-focusing light pulses called solitons that turn the air itself into a lens, continually refocusing the pulse.
Such a weapon would produce dramatic effects. The rapid temperature rise from the ultrashort pulse would vaporise the surface of a target rather than melting it, a technique used industrially to drill precise holes through metal. The resulting rapid expansion of gas can also produce a powerful blast wave.
A handy characteristic. I wonder how such systems change over time. There’s no such thing as endless energy.
