Theoretical description of field-assisted post-collision interaction in Auger decay of atoms

Abstract

In a recent publication [B. Schuette, S. Bauch et al., accepted for publication in Phys. Rev. Lett. 2012] it was demonstrated both, experimentally and theoretically, that Auger electrons are subject to an energetic chirp if a three-body-interaction dubbed post-collision interaction (PCI) is involved. Here, we extend previous theoretical work and give a detailed analysis of field-assisted PCI based on numerical solutions of the time-dependent Schr\"odinger equation, extensive Monte-Carlo averaged molecular dynamics simulations and analytical theory. The dependence on various streaking and excitation conditions is investigated, and we discuss, how these findings may help to improve XUV pulse characterization as well as understanding of ultrafast atomic processes.