Interpretation of experiments in laser-driven fusion

An analysis is given for the number and energy distribution of superthermal electrons produced in a laser-heated plasma. The result is independent of the spatial and temporal distribution of electron density and temperature. The effects of electrostrictive forces on a laser-heated plasma have been calculated for different laser wavelengths using a hydrodynamic code of standard form. Large density discontinuities and marked fluctuations in reflectivity are predicted. Hydrodynamic calculations of shell implosions show a marked dependence on laser wavelength for wavelengths less than one micron. The coupling to the dense imploded shell rises from 6% at one micron to 33% at 0.1 microns, increasing possible energy multiplication in a pellet from approximately 60 to 400