Energy deposition and transport dynamics in plasmas produced by intense, short pulse irradiation of atomic clusters

Abstract

We have explored the dynamics of laser energy deposition and subsequent energy transport in plasmas produced by the intense ionization of gases composed of large atomic clusters. We find that the laser energy absorption can be extremely efficient, despite the low average density of the gas. We have used time-resolved interferometery to examine the spatial and temporal evolution of the plasmas created in this manner. We find that, due to the high temperatures achieved, a supersonic ionization wave is driven by hot electron thermal energy transport.