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Ultrafast quantum control of ionization dynamics in krypton
Konrad Hütten1,2, Michael Mittermair1,2, Sebastian O Stock3,4
1Physics Department E11, Technical University of Munich, Garching, 85748, Germany.
Nature Communications
|February 21, 2018
Summary
Ultrafast spectroscopy using attosecond pulses tracks electron dynamics in krypton atoms. This method reveals intermediate states in Auger auto-ionization and allows control over ionization processes.
Area of Science:
- Quantum dynamics
- Atomic and molecular physics
- Ultrafast spectroscopy
Background:
- Attosecond spectroscopy enables real-time observation of electron dynamics.
- Pump-probe schemes with photoelectron, XUV absorption, or photo-ion mass spectrometry are used.
- Understanding complex ionization cascades requires advanced techniques.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate combined photo-ion and absorption spectroscopy with attosecond resolution.
- To track the excitation and decay cascade of Auger auto-ionization in krypton.
- To reveal the role of intermediate electronic states in ion formation.
Main Methods:
- Implementation of combined photo-ion and absorption spectroscopy.
- Utilizing attosecond pulses or pulse trains for high temporal resolution.
- Employing a pump-probe scheme with tunable laser fields.
Main Results:
- Successfully tracked a complex, multidimensional Auger auto-ionization cascade in krypton over a few femtoseconds.
- Revealed the significant role of intermediate electronic states in the formation of multiply charged ions.
- Demonstrated temporal and quantitative control over ionization dynamics by tuning the dressing laser field.
Conclusions:
- Combined attosecond spectroscopy provides unprecedented insight into ultrafast electron dynamics.
- Intermediate electronic states are crucial in Auger auto-ionization pathways.
- External laser fields can precisely control ionization dynamics in atoms.
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