A solid-state laser is a type of laser that uses a solid material as its gain medium, typically a crystal or glass that is doped with ions. These ions are responsible for amplifying light when energy is applied, usually from a flashlamp or another laser. Solid-state lasers are known for their efficiency, compact size, and ability to produce high-quality beams of light. Common applications of solid-state lasers include cutting and welding materials, medical procedures, and laser pointers. They are widely used in industries such as manufacturing and healthcare due to their precision and reliability. Examples of solid-state lasers include the Nd:YAG laser and the Ruby laser.