Abstract
Using a combination of semiclassical and recently developed wave packet propagation techniques we find the quantum self-ionization process of highly excited ions moving in magnetic fields which has its origin in the energy transfer from the center of mass to the electronic motion. It obeys a time scale orders of magnitude larger than the corresponding classical process. Importantly a quantum coherence phenomenon leading to the intermittent behavior of the ionization signal is found and analyzed. Universal properties of the ionization process are established.
- Received 12 March 1999
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.84.1870
©2000 American Physical Society