laser plasma acceleration

Laser plasma acceleration uses ultra-powerful laser pulses to generate a plasma—a state of matter where electrons are free from atoms—in a controlled environment. When a high-intensity laser hits the plasma, it creates a strong electric field that rapidly propels electrons forward, forming a wake similar to the wave behind a speeding boat. This wake contains intense energy capable of accelerating particles like electrons to very high speeds over short distances. This technology has the potential to produce compact, efficient particle accelerators for scientific research, medical treatments, and other applications.