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1 - Introduction to Strong Field Physics

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  05 July 2025

Todd Ditmire
Affiliation:
University of Texas, Austin
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Summary

This chapter opens with a discussion of the definition of the strong field physics, high-intensity regime, arguing that the strong field regime is entered, when considering interactions with atoms and molecules, when the light intensity is high enough that traditional quantum perturbation theory breaks down. If considering interactions in plasmas, the light field can be considered “strong” when the laser field strength is high enough that it dominates the thermal motion of electrons in the plasma. In both cases it is argued that the strong field regime begins at light intensity near 1014 W/cm2. The chapter then goes on to recount a brief history of research in strong field high intensity laser physics, highlighting major achievements in the field since its inception with the initial pioneering publication by Keldysh on strong field atomic ionization. A historical overview of both the atomic-molecular and plasma physics aspects of the field are presented. The chapter concludes with some comments on mathematical notation employed throughout the book.

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Chapter
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Strong Field Physics
Ultra-Intense Light Interaction with Matter
, pp. 1 - 11
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2025

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