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Internal laser-induced dipole force at work in C60 molecule
V R Bhardwaj1, P B Corkum, D M Rayner
1Steacie Institute for Molecular Science, National Research Council, 100 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1A 0R6.
Physical Review Letters
|December 20, 2003
Summary
Researchers developed a new model for complex molecule ionization using intense laser fields. This method achieved stable, highly charged C60 molecules, reaching record-breaking charge states and offering insights into molecular stability.
Area of Science:
- Physical Chemistry
- Atomic and Molecular Physics
- Quantum Optics
Background:
- Understanding molecular response to intense laser fields is crucial for advanced material science and spectroscopy.
- Existing models often simplify complex many-electron interactions, limiting accuracy for intricate molecules like C60.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a unified model incorporating many-electron dynamics within a single-active-electron framework for intense laser-molecule interactions.
- To investigate and achieve unprecedentedly high charge states of C60 molecules using infrared radiation.
Main Methods:
- Incorporation of many-electron response into the single-active-electron picture.
- Development and application of an "over-the-barrier" ionization model for C60.
- Experimental validation using intense infrared laser fields.
Main Results:
- Successful confirmation of the "over-the-barrier" model for C60 ionization.
- Generation of stable, highly charged C60 molecules, reaching up to C12+60.
- Observation of molecular stress due to internal forces and rapid charging at high intensities.
Conclusions:
- The developed model accurately describes complex molecular ionization dynamics under intense laser fields.
- Achieving record charge states in C60 demonstrates the model's predictive power and experimental feasibility.
- The interplay of forces offers a pathway to control and achieve even higher molecular charge states.