What is this phenominon?

[Leodahsan]

Those are all excellent suggestions.
I was kind of thinking along the same lines with respect to the scattering effect, so I guess my next experiment is going to be to attempt to polish the cylinder a little bit and see if there's any discernible difference in the scattering effect. (It's getting a bit late tonight though so I probably won't get to it until tomorrow)
Thanks again to all who have answered.
Ultimately, I'm attempting to find some ways to use a laser to verify some new theories I have regarding matter and energy.
One of these is a new explanation for the cause and effects of the "Double slit experiment." (or double slit diffraction)
Anyway, thanks again. I appreciate the feedback.
Sincerely,
policetac

The double slit is a cool experiment to do. Oh, interference patterns, destructive and constructive interference... IIRC you can discover the wavelength of a laser. Homemade spectrometer anyone? :eg:

 

[Jasminemanselt]

Thanks guys... I was also not aware about the phenomenon of laser pointers but the discussion helped me a lot in getting a fair idea about how lasers actually works...

 

[Bill King]

If you could chuck the axle into a lathe or drill in a vise, then put the laser on it so it casts its line then observe changes in the line as you polish the axle with the lathe turning and some fine fine 400 or higher wet sandpaper. That could be interesting.

 

[CDDLDLSR]

Forget it.HeNe nice.