Compton scattering overview

An overview of linear and nonlinear Compton scattering is presented, along with a comparison with Thomson scattering Two distinct processes play important roles in the nonlinear regime: multiphoton interactions, leading to the generation of harmonics; and radiation pressure, yielding a downshift of the radiated spectral features. These mechanisms, their influence on the source brightness, and different modeling strategies are also briefly discussed. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.