Internal Laser-Induced Dipole Force at Work in C₆₀ Molecule

We show how the many electron response of a complex molecule to an intense laser field can be incorporated with the single active electron picture. This enables us to introduce an “over-the-barrier” model for C₆₀^z+ ionization, valid for long wavelength light. Using infrared radiation, we confirm the model and also produce stable, highly charged C₆₀ reaching C₆₀¹²⁺, the highest charge state ever observed. At high intensities and high charge states the internal laser-induced dipole force and rapid charging lead to stress on the molecule. The interplay between the forces provides control and suggest strategies for reaching even higher charge states.