Vlasov simulation of superintense laser‐solid interaction

The energy deposition by a single, obliquely incident p‐polarized laser beam of ultrashort pulse duration is studied by relativistic Vlasov simulations. It is demonstrated that the magnitude of fractional absorption is determined by the slow time scale evolution of the electron distribution function. In particular, secular (dc) electric and magnetic fields control the degree of absorption. These fields are generated at the vacuum‐plasma interface. Their magnitude increases with growing irradiation. It will be shown that the dc magnetic field provides a collective energy gain‐limiter.