Propagation Dynamics of Dark Hollow Gaussian Laser Beams in Cold Quantum Plasma Using a Paraxial‐Like Approach

ABSTRACT This paper presents propagation dynamics of dark hollow Gaussian (DHG) laser beams in cold quantum plasma (CQP). The nonlinear differential equation describing the evolution of width of the beam with propagation distance is obtained based on the Wentzel‐Kramers‐Brillouin (WKB) and paraxial‐like approximations by taking into account the dielectric function of CQP. An influence of higher ordered DHG beams on the nature of self‐focusing in CQP is specifically examined. Numerical results are compared with classical relativistic (CR) plasma. Weakening of self‐focusing in CQP is observed for higher‐order DHG beams. Additionally, an enhanced self‐focusing of DHG beams is observed in CQP as compared with CR case of reference.