Researchers from Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), the University of Rostock, and the University of Konstanz have achieved unprecedented control over electron emission from metals, utilizing two superimposed laser fields with varying strengths and frequencies. This advancement allows for precise measurements of electron emission times in the attosecond range, potentially revolutionizing electronic circuits and advancing quantum mechanics. Historically, the photoelectric effect, discovered in the 19th century, illustrated how light can release electrons from metal; however, this recent work leverages modern laser technology to examine electron dynamics in solids rather than gases.
The researchers employed a method involving a strong laser pulse and a second weaker one to manipulate the shape and intensity of the laser field, facilitating controlled electron tunneling. Their findings demonstrated an ability to limit electron emission duration to an astounding 30 attoseconds. This technique holds promise for developing light-field-driven electronics, where the laser light can create precisely timed sequences of electron pulses for faster electrical signals. Such innovations could lead to circuits operating at petahertz frequencies—potentially a million times quicker than current technologies, laying the groundwork for future microchip integration.
