- Letter
Orbital orientation resolving real-time attosecond ionization and rescattering dynamics
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 -orbital electrons, ionization occurs earlier for the perpendicular () alignment than for the parallel ( = 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.