How Does a High-Intensity Laser Interact with an Electron Cloud?

[God Plays Dice]

A high intensity continuous wave laser passes through an electron cloud. Please discuss what would happen and in relative amounts.

Thanks

 

[Drakkith]

I think your conditions are going to need to be more specific if you want any meaningful discussion.

 

[God Plays Dice]

If the frequency is in the visible I think Thomson scattering would occur, but by how much? Does all of the energy of the incoming wave get absorbed and re emitted by the electron ie Thomson scattered?

 

[mfb]

That will depend on the area density of the electron cloud.

The laser intensity can be relevant as well.