Which atmospheric phenomenon specifically affects a LASER but not commonly other Electro-Optical sources?

The correct answer highlights turbulence as the atmospheric phenomenon that specifically impacts laser systems due to their unique characteristics. Lasers emit coherent light, which means that the light waves remain in phase over a distance, forming a narrow, focused beam. When this beam traverses turbulent atmospheric conditions, such as varying air densities caused by temperature changes, it can bend and scatter in unpredictable ways. This turbulence causes what is known as "beam wander," affecting the precision and focus of the laser, which may reduce its effectiveness for targeting or communications.

Other electro-optical sources, while they can be influenced by turbulence, do not experience the same level of impact due to their typically broader and less coherent light output. For instance, traditional cameras or other light sources generally do not rely on such precision as lasers do, making them less susceptible to the effects of atmospheric turbulence in terms of their operational capabilities. Different phenomena like absorption, scattering, and reflection impact a wide array of optical systems, not exclusively lasers, thus further solidifying turbulence as the distinct factor in this context.