Generation of fast electrons by breaking of a laser-induced plasma wave

A one-dimensional model for fast electron generation by an intense, nonevolving laser pulse propagating through an underdense plasma has been developed. Plasma wave breaking is considered to be the dominant mechanism behind this process, and wave breaking both in front of and behind the laser pulse is discussed. Fast electrons emerge as a short bunch, and the electrostatic field of this bunch is shown to limit self-consistently the amount of generated fast electrons.