Model calculations for an atom interacting with an intense, time-dependent electric field

Journal Article · Fri Apr 01 04:00:00 EST 1988 · Phys. Rev. A; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.37.2415· OSTI ID:5437343

Collins, L A; Merts, A L

We have performed a set of numerical calculations of the one-dimensional, time-dependent Schroedinger equation in order to study the interaction of an intense, electromagnetic field with a model atom. We approximate the atom by a local, square-well potential and the electromagnetic wave by an oscillating electric field. We investigate the multiphoton-absorption process that leads to the ''above-threshold'' ionization (ATI) phenomenon. We not only examine the ionization probability and electron-energy distributions within the field but also the effects of spatial and temporal boundaries that represent the finite dimensions of a laser pulse. We observe all the main features of the ATI behavior from the shifting of the peaks to their disappearance. In addition, we find differences in the positions of the peaks according to how the electron exits the field region. We also explore resonant ionization as well as Volkov wave packets and the recombination process.

• Research Organization: Theoretical Division (T-4), Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, New Mexico 87544
• OSTI ID: 5437343
• Journal Information: Phys. Rev. A; (United States), Journal Name: Phys. Rev. A; (United States) Vol. 37:7; ISSN PLRAA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

645202* -- High Energy Physics-- Particle Interactions & Properties-Theoretical-- Electromagnetic Interactions & Properties
72 PHYSICS OF ELEMENTARY PARTICLES AND FIELDS
ABSORPTION
ATOMS
DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS
ELECTRIC FIELDS
EQUATIONS
IONIZATION
MULTI-PHOTON PROCESSES
NUCLEAR POTENTIAL
PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS
PHOTOIONIZATION
POTENTIALS
RECOMBINATION
SCHROEDINGER EQUATION
SQUARE-WELL POTENTIAL
WAVE EQUATIONS