Magnetic-Dipole Vortex Generation by Propagation of Ultraintense and Ultrashort Laser Pulses in Moderate-Density Plasmas

Journal Article · Fri May 23 00:00:00 EDT 2008 · Physical Review Letters

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PHYSREVLETT.100.205006· OSTI ID:21132451

Nakamura, Tatsufumi ^[1]; Mima, Kunioki ^[2]

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1. Kansai Photon Research Institute (JAEA), 8-1 Umemidai, Kizugawa, Kyoto 619-0215 (Japan)
2. Institute of Laser Engineering, Osaka University, 2-6 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871 (Japan)

A magnetic-dipole vortex is generated in the behind of an ultraintense and ultrashort laser pulse in a near critical density plasma. The vortex is self-sustained by its magnetic field pressure which expels background electrons, and resulting sheath field accelerates electrons to drive high amplitude electric current inside the vortex. The electron energy spectra shows nonthermal distribution with relatively high energy. The vortex is stable for a long period since it is in the electromagnetic equilibrium, whose structure and characteristics are explained by a simple analytical model.

• OSTI ID: 21132451
• Journal Information: Physical Review Letters, Vol. 100, Issue 20; Other Information: DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.100.205006; (c) 2008 The American Physical Society; Country of input: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA); ISSN 0031-9007
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS
GENERAL PHYSICS
ELECTRIC CURRENTS
ELECTRONS
ENERGY SPECTRA
LASERS
MAGNETIC DIPOLES
MAGNETIC FIELDS
PLASMA DENSITY
PULSES