Abstract

Unipolar “half-cycle” pulses (HCPs) can be used to alter the momentum distribution of atomic electrons over subpicosecond timescales. Previously, momentum “kicks” from HCPs were used to produce electronic wave packets from highly excited Rydberg eigenstates.^1,2 In addition, these pulses have been used to kick bound electrons into the continuum, making it possible to monitor the time-dependent momentum distribution of electronic wave packets.^2,3

© 1998 Optical Society of America