Fast electrons generated from Al targets irradiated by polarized laser pulses

Energy spectrum and angular distribution of fast electrons are measured in the interaction of linearly (P and S) and circularly polarized femtosecond laser pulses with an aluminum target. It is interesting to note that the angular distribution of backward going electrons is unique for S and circular polarization. For S polarization, the angular distribution of fast electrons can be explained by taking account of the surface magnetic field qualitatively.