Spin-orbit coupling of a multiply charged ion is investigated in an intense laser field with a non-negligible magnetic field component. The Lorentz force induces an enhanced angular motion of the bound electron, especially in the vicinity of the nucleus and, consequently, an orbital angular momentum and spin-orbit coupling significantly larger than without the presence of the intense laser field. This gives rise to clear deviations in the electronic wave packet motion and to a strongly increased splitting of resonant lines in the corresponding radiation spectrum.

• Received 8 June 1999

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.83.4709