Laser Production of Soft X-Rays by Multiquantum Processes and the Excitation of Atomic Inner-Shell States
Abstract
Atomic and molecular materials exhibit complex behavior when exposed to strong externally applied fields. This research goal is to understand the nonlinear processes governing the coupling of intense radiation to atomic and molecular matter. The general amplitude under study is N gamma + X yields X superscript q+ + qe(-) + gamma', a class of processes which involves ionization with the collateral production of energetic electrons and radiation. Recently developed ultraviolet light sources are enabling the attainment of focal intensities such that the strong field regime can now be systematically studied. It was anticipated that such conditions would produce unusual excited states of matter and that expectation has been confirmed by recent experimental findings revealing the direct multiphoton production of inner-orbital (2 sigma/g) excited states of N2+ and N2(2+). Indeed, it can be shown that the strong-field coupling represents a unique mode of interaction which combines (1) the application of strong electromagnetic forces with (2) a very small collateral transfer of energy. This regime is impossible to achieve with charged particle collisions or with low intensity radiation of any frequency. Interactions of this type are particularly effective in exciting electronic motions along specific molecular axes enabling the generation of new forms of highly excited matter regardless of molecular structure or composition.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 06, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA211372
Entities
People
- Armon Mcpherson
- Charles K. Rhodes
- Keith Boyer
- Ting S. Luk
Organizations
- University of Illinois at Chicago