[header] How to make a laser [title] Provide a source of energy. [step] Lasers work, or " lase, " by stimulating electrons to emit light of a particular wavelength. ( this process was first proposed in 1917 by albert einstein. 
) for electrons to emit light, they must first absorb energy to boost them to a higher orbit, then discharge that energy as light when returning to their original orbit. These energy sources are known as " pumps.