The Effect of Continuum-continuum Transitions on Laser-induced Continuum Structures

Abstract

Abstract Laser induced continuum structures (LICS) can be produced by a strong laser embedding an excited atomic bound state into a flat atomic continuum, leading to a tunable resonance of adjustable width that can be probed by a second laser. If this second laser is of similar intensity to the embedding laser then the distinction between the two becomes artificial and saturation effects become important. In this paper the effect on LICS of transitions caused by both lasers between the original atomic continuum and a second atomic continuum are studied in the Markoff approximation by means of Laplace transform methods and allowing for the ionization of each atomic state by both laser fields. Formal results correct to all orders are also given in terms of a T-matrix approach. Numerical calculations are presented showing the effects on the LICS resonant structures of continuum-continuum coupling processes. Significant changes to the Fano profiles (second laser weak) and to coherence holes (second laser strong) occur. Analytical results are also given.