Theory of high-order harmonic generation by an elliptically polarized laser field

We generalize a recently formulated theory of high-order harmonic generation by low-frequency laser fields [Anne L'Huillier et al., Phys. Rev. A 48, R3433 (1993)] to the case of an elliptically polarized light. Our theoretical description includes both the single-atom response and propagation. Phase matching significantly modifies the results obtained in the single-atom response. The results of our calculations, including propagation for both the intensity and polarization properties of harmonics as a function of laser ellipticity, compare very well with recent experimental observations.