Coherent quantum enhancement of pair production in the null domain

Abstract

We present an exactly solvable example of coherent quantum interference effects in the creation of electron-positron pairs from the collision of a photon with ultra-short laser pulses. Being characterised entirely by null, or lightlike, directions, this setup realises an all-optical double-slit in the "null" domain, and exhibits features both in common with, and distinct from, a time domain double-slit (Ramsey interferometer). We show that by tailoring the order and amplitude of the pulses one can control signatures of both quantum and classical physics in the produced positron spectrum.