Approximate atomic ionization rates in the stabilization regime of the Kramers–Henneberger picture

Abstract

We undertake an approximate low-order calculation of the ionization rate of an atom in the strong-field regime, where stabilization, i.e., suppression of ionization, has been predicted. We proceed in the Kramers–Henneberger (K–H) reference frame and take into account time-dependent corrections to the static K–H potential. Using results from a short-range model atomic potential, we conclude that three stages of ionization can be distinguished: (1) An abrupt adjustment to laser turn-on occurs and causes some ionization; (2) very rapid depletion of a major fraction of the ground-state probability ends with stabilization of the remaining fraction; and (3) a residual slower ionization ultimately eliminates stabilization.