Dynamics of emitting electrons in strong laser fields

A new derivation of the motion of a radiating electron is given, leading to a formulation that differs from the Lorentz-Abraham-Dirac equation and its published modifications. It satisfies the proper conservation laws. Particularly, it conserves the generalized momentum, eliminating the symmetry-breaking runaway solution. The equation allows a consistent calculation of the electron current, the radiation effect on the electron momentum, and the radiation itself, for a single electron or plasma electrons in strong electromagnetic fields. The equation is then applied to a simulation of a strong laser pulse interaction with a plasma target. Some analytical solutions are also provided. (C) 2009 American Institute of Physics. [doi: 10.1063/1.3236748]