Gaussian energy distribution of fast ions emitted by laser-produced plasmas

► Ions emitted by laser-produced plasmas have shifted Maxwell-Boltzmann velocity distribution. ► Only almost monoenergetic fast ions have Gauss energy distribution. ► Linear relation between relative spreads in energy ΔE/E and time-of-flight Δt/t of fast ions is valid only for ΔE < 0.2E. ► TOF energy-sensitive detector gives higher peak velocity than velocity- and density-sensitive ones. ► Bursts of fast ions emitted by laser-produced plasma consist of almost monoenergetic ion beams.