Coherent quantum enhancement of pair production in the null domain

Abstract

We present an exactly solvable example of coherent quantum interference effects in the creation of electron-positron pairs from the collision of a photon with ultra-short laser pulses. Being characterised entirely by null, or lightlike, directions, this setup realises an all-optical double-slit in the "null" domain, and exhibits features both in common with, and distinct from, a time domain double-slit (Ramsey interferometer). We show that by tailoring the order and amplitude of the pulses one can control signatures of both quantum and classical physics in the produced positron spectrum.

Comments: 5 pages, 3 pdf figures. Matches journal version