What does the term 'fluence' refer to in laser technology?

Fluence in laser technology refers to the energy delivered per unit area and is commonly expressed in joules per square centimeter (J/cm²). This measure is crucial because it helps determine the effectiveness of a laser treatment or procedure. High fluence can result in more significant effects on the target tissue, leading to better outcomes for applications like dermatology, hair removal, or surgical procedures.

Understanding fluence is important because it encapsulates both the intensity and distribution of the laser energy applied to the skin or other target materials. The total amount of energy delivered across the area where the laser is applied directly relates to how the tissue will respond, making this term central in laser physics and applications.