Stabilization of atoms with nonzero magnetic quantum numbers

A classical analysis of the interaction of an atomic electron with an oscillating electric field with arbitrary initial quantum number, n, magnetic quantum number, m > 0, field strength, and frequency shows that the classical, dynamics for the perturbed electron can be stabilized for large fields and high frequencies. Using a four-dimensional map approximation to the classical dynamics, explicit expressions are obtained for the full parameter dependence of the boundaries of stability surrounding the open-quotes death valleyclose quotes of rapid classical ionization. A preliminary analysis of the quantum dynamics in terms of the quasienergy states associated with the corresponding quantum map is also included with particular emphasis on the role of unstable classical structures in stabilizing atoms. Together, these results provide motivation and direction for further theoretical and experimental studies of stabilization of atoms (and molecules) in super-intense microwave and laser fields