Strong-field nondipole approximation in laser-assisted thermal electron scattering

This study investigates the differential cross-section (DCS) of electrons scattered by a hydrogen molecule (H₂) under varying conditions, including temperature, momentum, laser intensity, and polarization. The objective was to understand how these parameters affect electron scattering and to compare the effects of linear and circular polarizations. Methodologically, theoretical model was developed using strong-field nondipole approximation with linear and circular polarized laser fields, examining DCS as a function of thermal electron temperature, momentum, and laser intensity. The study utilized a modified Volkov wave function model to account for thermal electron effects and analyzed DCS variations across different orbitals (n = 1, n = 2, and n = 3). Findings reveal that DCS increases with temperature due to enhanced electron oscillations, with higher orbitals (n = 3) showing greater DCS compared to lower orbitals (n = 1). Increased momentum results in decreased DCS, with higher orbitals exhibiting higher DCS values under circular polarization, contrary to linear polarization. Laser intensity decreases DCS for both polarizations, with circular polarization providing a narrower range of DCS values and generally higher DCS compared to linear polarization. This research further exploration of polarization effects on DCS in different atomic systems and extending studies to higher energy regions for a comprehensive understanding of electron scattering dynamics.