Optimizing the pulse shape for Schwinger pair production

TL;DR

This paper applies optimal control theory within a quantum kinetic framework to systematically optimize electric pulse shapes, significantly enhancing Schwinger pair production yields.

Contribution

It introduces a systematic optimal control approach to maximize particle production in the Schwinger effect, improving upon previous ad hoc methods.

Findings

Optimal pulse shaping can significantly increase particle yield.

The method accounts for practical constraints and initial conditions.

Results align with and extend established findings in Schwinger pair production.

Abstract

Recent studies of the dynamically assisted Schwinger effect have shown that particle production is significantly enhanced by a proper choice of the electric field. We demonstrate that optimal control theory provides a systematic means of modifying the pulse shape in order to maximize the particle yield. We employ the quantum kinetic framework and derive the relevant optimal control equations. By means of simple examples we discuss several important issues of the optimization procedure such as constraints, initial conditions or scaling. By relating our findings to established results we demonstrate that the particle yield is systematically maximized by this procedure.