Nonlinearity and ionization in Xe: experiment-based calibration of a numerical model

Area of Science:

• Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics
• Quantum Optics
• Computational Physics

Background:

• Universality of nonlinear optical response is a key concept.
• Accurate modeling of light-matter interactions is crucial for nonlinear optics.
• Previous models for xenon nonlinear response require refinement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To test the proposed universality of nonlinear response.
• To improve a previously developed model for xenon.
• To establish a self-consistent method for calibrating light-matter interaction models.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing accurate time and space-resolved measurements of nonlinear polarization and ionization.
• Calibrating scaling parameters of the xenon model.
• Comparing model predictions with experimental data across various intensities.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated agreement between the improved model and experimental results.
• Validated the model's performance across near-infrared and mid-infrared wavelengths.
• Showcased the model's applicability to other atomic and molecular species.

Conclusions:

• The universality of nonlinear response provides a robust framework for modeling.
• The improved xenon model accurately describes light-matter interactions.
• This approach offers a generalizable method for calibrating interaction models for diverse species.