Differential Cross-Section Analysis Using Thermal Volkov Wave Functions and Gaussian-Screened Potentials in Laser-Assisted Scattering

Abstract

The aim of this work is to study the scattering behavior of electrons in a Gaussian-screened potential under polarized laser fields (linear, circular, and elliptical) within thermal and nonthermal environments. For this purpose, we developed a theoretical model using the thermal Volkov wave function to describe electron dynamics in the Gaussian-screened potential. Using the thermal Volkov wave function, we derived the scattering and transition matrices via the Kroll-Watson approximation. From the transition matrix, the differential cross-section was obtained, which directly characterizes the scattering behavior of electrons in the Gaussian-screened potential. The developed differential cross-section model was computed to analyze electron behavior under thermal and nonthermal conditions. Observations indicate that the differential cross-section is highest for elliptical polarization, followed by circular and linear polarizations. Additionally, the differential cross-section is greater in thermal environments compared to nonthermal ones. Also, the screening parameters significantly affect resonance positions and differential cross section magnitudes, shifting peaks toward smaller angles and increasing cross-section values at higher screening. Distance separation studies reveal contrasting trends between thermal and non-thermal regimes, and photon energy variations highlight polarization reversals at higher energies. The study demonstrates that differential cross section can be effectively manipulated by tuning polarization, screening, temperature, and scattering angle. This study shows that electron scattering with Gaussian-screened potentials can be controlled by tuning polarization, screening, temperature, and scattering angle, which has practical applications in plasma physics, fusion energy, and semiconductor technology. The findings also provide insights for advanced material processing, space plasma modeling, and the development of laser-based diagnostic tools.