Single-cycle electron acceleration in focused laser fields.

Abstract

The possibility of accelerating particles with a focused laser is considered. The particle is accelerated transversely by the electric field and redirected to the forward direction within a single half-cycle by the magnetic field of the radiation. The equations of motion of the particle are solved and discussed. Special attention is given to an intuitive understanding of the constraint imposed by the geometry of the focal region. Optimum conditions are examined.