Hearing carrier-envelope offset frequency and phase in air with a microphone

Abstract

Attosecond science and frequency metrology rely on the precise measurement and control of the laser pulse waveform, a feat traditionally achieved using optoelectronic techniques. In this study, we conducted a laser-induced acoustic experiment in air ionized by carrier-envelope phase (CEP)-stabilized sub-4 femtosecond pulses. Our results reveal that the acoustic signal exhibits CEP dependence in few-cycle pulses, primarily through amplitude modulation from laser-driven ionization. This novel optoacoustic phenomenon enables not only the measurement of the carrier-envelope offset frequency but also the direct characterization of the waveform of optical pulses through a microphone. Our study highlights the potential of laser-induced acoustic waves for advancing frequency metrology and ultrafast science.