Ion Acceleration Using a Laser (IMAGE) Chalmers University of Technology Caption A laser beam (purple-red) falls onto a thin foil, with a mirror on the rear side. The beam is reflected, forming a standing wave. Because of the systematical variation in wavelength of the laser pulse, the crests of the wave start to move. This drags the electrons and ions along, accelerating them to high speeds (green beam). Credit Felix Mackenroth Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.