Multiscale dynamical symmetries and selection rules in nonlinear optics

Symmetries and their associated selection rules are extremely useful in many fields of science. For systems of electromagnetic (EM) fields interacting with matter, the symmetries of matter and the EM fields' time -depen-dent polarization determine the properties of the nonlinear responses, and they can be facilitated for control-ling light emission and enabling ultrafast symmetry breaking spectroscopy of various properties. Here, we formulate a general theory that describes the macroscopic and microscopic dynamical symmetries (including quasicrystal-like symmetries) of EM vector fields, revealing many previously unidentified symmetries and selec-tion rules in light-matter interactions. We demonstrate an example of multiscale selection rules experimentally in the framework of high harmonic generation. This work paves the way for novel spectroscopic techniques in multiscale systems and for imprinting complex structures in extreme ultraviolet-x-ray beams, attosecond pulses, or the interacting medium itself.

Automated summary

Symmetries and selection rules play a vital role in light-matter interactions. This study formulates a general theory that uncovers previously unidentified symmetries and selection rules in electromagnetic field systems. Through experimental demonstrations in high harmonic generation, the work showcases the potential of these findings in novel spectroscopic techniques and imprinting complex structures on extreme ultraviolet-x-ray beams.