Generation of low-order harmonics in rare gases with non-Gaussian laser beams

Abstract

Generation of tunable resonance-enhanced third and fifth harmonics of the fundamental laser light in xenon and krypton have been studied under excitation by different non-Guassian (Bessel, Mathieu, annular) laser beams. Conversion efficiency, tuning curves, and spatial profiles of harmonic output have been analyzed and compared with the case of ordinary Gaussian beams in different excitation geometries. Some interesting and useful properties of novel laser beams in nonlinear optics are discussed.