Ultrafast quantum dynamics driven by the strong space charge field of a relativistic electron beam

In this paper, we illustrate how the Coulomb field of a highly relativistic electron beam can be shaped into a broadband pulse suitable for driving ultrafast and strong-field physics. In contrast to a solid-state laser, the Coulomb field creates a pulse that can be intrinsically synchronized with an x-ray free electron laser (XFEL), can have a cutoff frequency broadly tunable from THz to extreme ultraviolet (EUV), and that acts on target systems as a “half-cycle” impulse. Explicit examples are presented to emphasize how the unique features of this excitation can be a tool for novel science at XFEL facilities such as the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS).