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Orbital orientation resolving real-time attosecond ionization and rescattering dynamics

Lin Han1,3, Jing-Jing Zhang2, Hong-Gang Luo1,3, and Peng-Cheng Li2,*

  • 1School of Physical Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
  • 2Research Center for Advanced Optics and Photoelectronics, Department of Physics, College of Science, Shantou University, Shantou, Guangdong 515063, China
  • 3Lanzhou Center for Theoretical Physics, Key Laboratory of Theoretical Physics of Gansu Province, Key Laboratory of Quantum Theory and Applications of MoE, Gansu Provincial Research Center for Basic Disciplines of Quantum Physics, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China

  • *Contact author: pchli@stu.edu.cn

Phys. Rev. A 113, L041101 – Published 7 April, 2026

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/973m-hf5y

Abstract

Attosecond electron dynamics driven by strong laser fields are a cornerstone of strong-field physics. However, quantum many-body correlations have prevented the resolution of ionization and rescattering dynamics from specific valence subshells. Here, we present a theoretical framework that integrates time-dependent density functional theory with Bohmian mechanics, enabling us to track the attosecond dynamics of electrons from individual quantum orbitals in real time. Applying this to the many-electron argon atom uncovers a pronounced orientation-dependent effect. For p-orbital electrons, ionization occurs earlier for the perpendicular (m=±1) alignment than for the parallel (m = 0), yet the subsequent rescattering is delayed. This orientation-dependent dynamics persists even when the total ionization yield is lower. Our work provides an attosecond-resolved, orbital-specific picture of strong-field processes and establishes a foundation for future explorations of orbital-selective control with tailored waveforms.

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