go to this link and make sure you read all the pages (if you really are interested) http://www.howstuffworks.com/laser.htm and if you have more specific questions come back and we'll get it taken care of.
That's quite a question you've asked there, and the answer depends on the pointer itself (color, power, type of laser, etc.) Since your question is so broad, I recommend checking out the links in my signature below. Not only will you learn LOTS about lasers in general, you'll also find the answer to your question here.
A laser pointer is monochromatic. It produces one "color" or wavelength (with the exception of multi-line and DPSS lasers). The wavelength is dependent on the lasing medium.
Heat is caused by absorption of light by the surface of an object, so a laser beam itself is not "hot."
I am not sure exactly what you mean by "characteristics" and "typical." Please be more specific.
You will find that all your questions can be answered using the search function and reading... either here or on google. You can also try Wikipedia. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laser
you know whats funny guys. If he would have asked just one part of his question or asked it a little different there would have be 10 people scolding him for not reading the stickies. but like electrofreak said "That's quite a question you've asked there!!!"