Intense-field dissociation dynamics of D2+ molecular ions using ultrafast laser pulses

The dynamics of dissociation of pre-ionized D(2)(+) molecules using intense (10(12)-10(15) W cm(-2)), ultrashort (50 fs), infrared (lambda = 790 nm) laser pulses are examined. Use of an intensity selective scan technique has allowed the deuterium energy spectrum to be measured over a broad range of intensity. It is found that the dominant emission shifts to lower energies as intensity is increased, in good agreement with corresponding wavepacket simulations. The results are consistent with an interpretation in terms of bond softening, which at high intensity (approximately > 3 x 10(14) W cm(-2)) becomes dominated by dissociative ionization. Angular distribution measurements reveal the presence of slow molecular dissociation, an indication that vibrational trapping mechanisms occur in this molecule.