Quantum dynamics of multi-electron systems in strong laser fields

Abstract

The multi-configuration time-dependent Hartree-Fock (MCDTHF) method is a promising new method that can solve the time-dependent Schrodinger equation (TDSE) for a correlated multielectron system. We have written a computer code to solve the MCTDHF equations of motion. This code is highly optimized for speed and makes efficient use of memory. As a first test of the code, we will investigate the ionization dynamics of N2 in a strong laser-electric field using two active electrons. By examining the final momenta, parallel to the field polarization direction, of the two ionized electrons we are able to determine: (i) which laser dressed excited state the second electron was in at the time of ionization and (ii) the birth times of the electrons in the field. The results of these calculations provide a means for characterizing the attosecond dynamics of atoms and molecules without using attosecond pulses.