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Theoretical analysis of high-harmonic generation in solids
G Vampa1, C R McDonald1, G Orlando1
1Department of Physics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 6N5, Canada.
Physical Review Letters
|August 30, 2014
Summary
We theoretically investigate high-harmonic generation (HHG) in crystals using intense mid-infrared lasers. Our findings reveal that interband HHG, often overlooked, is the dominant mechanism, offering a new understanding of HHG in solids.
Area of Science:
- Solid-state physics
- Quantum optics
- Nonlinear optics
Background:
- High-harmonic generation (HHG) is a key process in nonlinear optics.
- Understanding HHG mechanisms in solids is crucial for advanced light source development.
- Previous studies have focused on intraband contributions to HHG in crystals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To theoretically investigate high-harmonic generation (HHG) in bulk crystals.
- To explore both interband and intraband HHG mechanisms.
- To identify the dominant HHG mechanism and its characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Theoretical investigation of HHG in bulk crystals.
- Analysis of intense mid-infrared laser interactions with photon energies below the band gap.
- Application of saddle point analysis in the Keldysh limit.
Main Results:
- Interband HHG is identified as the dominant mechanism, contrary to previous assumptions.
- Interband HHG in solids shares similarities with atomic HHG.
- Distinct wavelength dependencies were found for interband and intraband HHG.
Conclusions:
- Interband HHG is the primary driver of high-harmonic generation in bulk crystals under the studied conditions.
- The differing wavelength dependencies provide an experimental signature to differentiate between interband and intraband HHG.
- This research clarifies fundamental HHG mechanisms in solids and guides future experimental verification.
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