A directed-energy weapon (DEW) emits energy in an aimed direction without the means of a projectile. It transfers energy to a target for a desired effect. Intended effects may be non-lethal or lethal. Some such weapons are real, or are under active research and development.
The energy can come in various forms:
- Electromagnetic radiation, in lasers or masers
- Particles with mass, in particle beam weapons (Technically a form of micro-projectile weapon)
- Sound, in sonic weapons
Flamethrowers do not fall into this category, as they are actually projectile weapons, the projectile (gas or liquid) is simply on fire.
Some such weapons, perhaps most, at present appear only in science fiction, non-functional toys, film props or animation.
In science fiction, these weapons are sometimes known as death rays or rayguns and are usually portrayed as projecting energy at a person or object to kill or destroy. Many modern examples of science fiction have more specific names for directed energy weapons, due to research advances.
Read more about Directed-energy Weapon: Operational Advantages, Lasers, Masers, Particle Beam Weapons, Sonic Weapons, Non-lethal Weapons
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