Snapshots from particle-in-cell simulations of superintense laser-plasma interaction

Particle-in-cell simulations are a very useful approach for the study of laser-plasma interactions at ultrahigh intensities, such that the electron dynamics is relativistic. They are essential for the study of nonlinear laser-plasma dynamics and as a support tool for experiments and applications, including particle acceleration, ultrashort radiation sources, and nuclear fusion. We present a few images taken from investigations of ion acceleration in high-density plasmas and of coherent electromagnetic-structure generation in low-density plasmas. These images, as a common feature, are reminiscent of trees.