Nonparaxial theory of laser-driven plasma waves phase velocity in partially stripped magneto-plasma channels and wakefield acceleration

A nonlinear theory of nonparaxial propagation of ultraintense and ultrashort circularly polarized Gaussian laser pulses through an inhomogeneous partially stripped underdense magneto-plasma channel with a parabolic radial density profile is examined analytically and by one-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations. The direction of magnetic field is considered along the direction of propagation of the pulse. An analytical expression for the wakefield is derived. It is observed that wakefield structures depend on the applied external magnetic field and inhomogeneity of a plasma. Further, equations for the plasma waves phase velocity and the laser pulse group velocity are derived and examined numerically. It is observed that the group velocity of a laser pulse is significantly greater than the plasma waves phase velocity. These velocities depend on the applied magnetic field and the polarization state of the electric field of the laser pulse. (paper)