Relativistic quantum mechanics of charged vortex particles accelerated in a uniform electric field

Abstract: The relativistic quantum-mechanical description of a charged Laguerre-Gauss beam accelerated in a uniform electric field has been fulfilled. Stationary wave eigenfunctions are rigorously derived. The evolution of the beam parameters during acceleration is considered in detail. The practically important effect of extraordinary suppression of transverse spreading of the beam is discovered, carefully analyzed, and properly explained. Our results provide direct evidence that vortex particle beams can be accelerated without destroying their intrinsic vortex properties, paving the way for high-energy vortex beam applications.