Asymmetric angular distributions in two-frequency multiphoton ionization of hydrogen atoms

Abstract

We report on calculated angular distributions of electrons produced in the ionization of hydrogen atoms by a linearly polarized soft X-ray and a circularly polarized laser light, with both the electric fields vibrating on the same plane. Their shape exhibits asymmetries which are similar to those observed in multiphoton ionization of noble gases by singlefrequency elliptically polarized light. An explanation of these asymmetries is given in terms of lowering of symmetry caused by the simultaneous action of the two fields during the ionization of the atom. The case at hand is another example which allows a useful insight into a new class of physical situations which deserve to be further explored both experimentally and theoretically.