Electron-impact relativistic scattering of hydrogen-like atoms assisted by two laser fields

Abstract

Abstract We study the elastic scattering of hydrogen-like atoms by electron impact in the presence of two orthogonally polarized monochromatic laser fields. The theoretical framework employs the first Born approximation, with the wave functions of the incident and scattered electrons described by Volkov solutions. The hydrogen atom, prepared in its metastable (2 s 1/2 ) state, is modeled using the exact relativistic wave function. Relativistic differential cross sections (RDCS) are derived for three configurations: (i) field-free, (ii) single-laser field, and (iii) dual-laser fields. A systematic analysis of the RDCS as a function of incident electron energy and laser parameters reveals the determining influence of polarization on the scattering dynamics. The results provide predictive insight for future dual-laser experiments and confirm the validity of the Kroll–Watson sum rule for both laser fields in terms of photon exchange.