Why is laser light used in Lidar technology?

Laser light is utilized in Lidar technology primarily due to its narrow beam and high precision. This characteristic allows Lidar systems to focus on a specific target with minimal dispersion of the light, making it possible to obtain highly accurate distance measurements. The precision of laser light facilitates the gathering of detailed data about the environment, enabling effective mapping and object detection at various ranges.

Additionally, the narrow beam width helps in reducing interference from surrounding objects or ambient light, which is crucial for accurate speed and distance computations. In environments where identifying precise locations and speeds is essential, such as in law enforcement for speed detection, the advantages of laser light make it an ideal choice for Lidar systems.

In contrast, other options describe characteristics that do not align with the primary advantages of laser light in this application. For example, while Lidar can indeed measure speed at long distances, the defining feature that sets it apart is the precision provided by laser light. Similarly, cost considerations of light sources are secondary to the performance characteristics essential for Lidar's functionality.