Calculation of the energy characteristics of an electricdischarge CO2 laser

A model is proposed for the calculation of the output power of a fast-flow electric-discharge CO₂ laser. The model can be applied to various laser systems (with self-sustaining and non-self-sustaining discharges, with addition of CO₂ after passing through the discharge zone and without such addition). Quasi-onedimensional equations of gasdynamics are solved numerically together with equations of vibrational kinetics and allowance is made for the electrical excitation and stimulated transitions. An example of a calculation dealing with a CO₂+N₂+He laser is given.