Strong-field approximation in laser-assisted dynamics

When electrons, atoms, and molecules are in a strong laser field, the wave function of the continuum electron plays an important role. Nonperturbative results for the cross-section for laser-assisted scattering and the laser-assisted photoelectric effect are obtained using the Volkov wave function of a free electron in a laser field. Also derived is the rate for strong-field electron detachment from negative ions. (C) 2005 American Association of Physics Teachers.