Non-Linear Compton Scattering in a Strong Rotating Electric Field

TL;DR

This paper explicitly calculates the non-linear Compton scattering rate in a rotating electric field using a novel Klein-Gordon solution, revealing deviations from standard models and predicting a discrete harmonic spectrum observable with current laser technology.

Contribution

It introduces a new analytical model for non-linear Compton scattering in rotating electric fields, differing from the standard Volkov-Ritus approach, and provides predictions testable with existing laser setups.

Findings

Lower emitted power compared to Volkov-Ritus rate.

Discrete harmonic spectrum predicted for low-momentum electrons.

Model applicable to current optical and X-ray laser experiments.

Abstract

The non-linear Compton scattering rate in a rotating electric field is explicitly calculated for the first time. For this purpose, a novel solution to the Klein-Gordon equation in the presence of a rotating electric field is applied. An analytical expression for the emission rate is obtained, as well as a simplified approximation adequate for emplementation in kinetic codes. The spectrum is numerically calculated for nowadays optical and X-ray laser parameters. The results are compared to the standard Volkov-Ritus rate for a particle in a plane wave, which is commonly assumed to be valid for a rotating electric field under certain conditions. Subsequent deviations between the two models, both in the radiated power and the spectral shape, are demonstrated. First, the typical number of photons participating in the scattering process is much smaller compared to the Volkov-Ritus rate, resulting in up to an order of magnitude lower emitted power. Furthermore, our model predicts a discrete harmonics spectrum for electrons with low asymptotic momentum compared to the field amplitude. This discrete structure is a clear imprint of the electric field frequency, as opposed to the Volkov-Ritus rate which reduces to the constant crossed field rate for the physical conditions under consideration. Our model predictions can be tested with present-days laser facilities.