Special Smith–Purcell radiation from an open resonator array.

An interesting new physical phenomenon is uncovered—an open resonator array excited by an electron beam and able to generate a special kind of Smith–Purcell radiation (SPR). Although the frequency and direction satisfy the SPR relation, this is a single frequency radiation in a specific direction that is essentially different from ordinary SPR. The spectral density of this special radiation is also much higher than that of ordinary SPR. By means of theoretical analysis and digital simulations, the radiation mechanism together with its requirements are explored. This radiation may have great influence in modern physics and optics as it offers new ways to carry out coherent radiation generation and beam diagnostics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]