Quantum-mechanical interference between optical transitions: The effect of laser intensity noise

In a previous publication [Phys. Rev. A 55, 552 (1997)] we considered the effect of laser phase fluctuations on three-photon-one-photon phase control of resonance-enhanced. photoionization. Here we extend those studies by considering the role of laser intensity noise in addition to laser phase noise. While our results indicate that relative intensity fluctuations between the fundamental field and its third harmonic have a significant effect on control, the contrast between constructive and destructive interference is nonetheless two orders of magnitude, even under (reasonable) worst case situations. Consequently, neither laser intensity nor phase fluctuations appear to pose a serious impediment to the efficient phase control of atomic and molecular processes. [S1050-2947(99)00403-5].