Electron dynamics from atoms in laser fields

This project will study the interaction of electrons and lasers with atoms under conditions where the differential cross sections are measured, including those for excitation and ionization. Continuous wave lasers will be used to resonantly excite the atoms, and a low energy electron beam will be used to further excite, de-excite or ionize these targets. Electrons arising from the collision will then be momentum selected to determine the interactions that occur, allowing tests of current quantum theories of these collision processes. The experiments will be carried out in the electron spectrometers located in the laboratory where the laser systems are situated, and will require development of new equipment to allow the experiments to be performed under computer control. This work fits in with the EPSRC theme of atomic physics and laser interactions with atoms.