Spatial correlations in finite samples revealed by Coulomb explosion

TL;DR

This paper shows how Coulomb explosion experiments with short, intense light pulses can reveal initial atomic correlations in finite samples by analyzing characteristic peaks in the ions' kinetic-energy spectrum.

Contribution

It introduces an analytical description of the kinetic-energy peak formation, linking it to initial correlations and boundary effects, extending beyond mean-field models.

Findings

Peak in kinetic-energy spectrum indicates initial correlations.

Analytical model describes peak formation.

Experimental detection feasible with advanced light sources.

Abstract

We demonstrate that fast removal of many electrons uncovers initial correlations of atoms in a finite sample through a pronounced peak in the kinetic-energy spectrum of the exploding ions. This maximum is the result of an intricate interplay between the composition of the system from discrete particles and its boundary. The formation of the peak can be described analytically, allowing for correlations beyond a mean-field reference model. It can be experimentally detected with short and intense light pulses from 4th-generation light sources.