Gouy's Phase Anomaly in Electron Waves Produced by Strong-Field Ionization

Area of Science:

• Atomic Physics
• Quantum Mechanics
• Laser-Matter Interactions

Background:

• Strong laser fields interacting with atoms lead to complex photoelectron momentum distributions.
• These distributions arise from interfering electron trajectories, influenced by quantum mechanical effects.
• Accurate modeling requires accounting for phase shifts, such as Gouy's phase anomaly or Maslov phases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of Maslov phases on photoelectron momentum distributions.
• To develop a semiclassical model incorporating these phase shifts for improved accuracy.
• To establish a relationship between 2D and 3D models for linear polarization.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of a semiclassical model using clustering algorithms.
• Inclusion of preexponential factors influencing trajectory weight and phase.
• Derivation of a rule to connect 2D and 3D models under linear polarization.

Main Results:

• The inclusion of Maslov phases significantly improves the fidelity of photoelectron momentum distribution modeling.
• A new rule accurately relates 2D and 3D models, explaining fringe shifts and high-energy yield differences.
• Model predictions show excellent agreement with time-dependent Schrödinger equation solutions.

Conclusions:

• Maslov phases are crucial for accurately describing photoelectron holography and strong-field ionization.
• The developed semiclassical model provides a robust framework for understanding these phenomena.
• The findings offer insights into electron trajectory interference and phase dynamics in strong laser fields.