Abstract
We present theoretical and experimental studies on quantum path interferences in high-order harmonic generation. Simulations of the single-atom response allow us to calculate the different quantum paths contributions; their relative phases and the resulting interferences can be finely controlled through the laser intensity that provides an efficient means for controlling the electron trajectories with an accuracy on the ten attoseconds time scale. Simulations of the macroscopic response demonstrate the need of spatial and spectral filtering of the harmonic beam in order to observe the interferences between the two shortest quantum paths. Our numerical results are in very good agreement with experimental data. These investigations represent a step toward the full characterization and control of the atomic harmonic dipole.
- Received 7 May 2009
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.80.033817
©2009 American Physical Society
Synopsis
SynopsisKeeping track of electronic paths with attosecond resolution
Published 14 September 2009
A full quantum mechanical description of how light interacts with matter in higher-harmonic generation may lead to better control over the production of isolated and sequential attosecond ultraviolet pulses.
See more in Physics
