On the acceleration of ions from exploding clusters

An overview is provided of the rich dynamics that underlie the interaction of large, gas-phase clusters with intense optical radiation, resulting in the formation of highly charged clusters that subsequently undergo Coulomb explosion. We focus on those facets of the dynamics that determine the energies and yields of charged particles that are produced upon Coulomb explosion with a perspective on exercising control so as to explore the feasibility of schemes for table-top acceleration of charged particles. Illustrative examples are provided from recent work on atomic clusters, molecular clusters, and doped heteronuclear clusters