Harmonic generation from free electrons in intense laser fields: Classical versus semi-classical theory

In this paper a detailed numerical comparison of the high-harmonic generation (HHG) from free electrons in intense laser fields in both classical and semi-classical frameworks has been presented These two frameworks have been widely used in the literature It has been found that the HHG spectra display distinct quantitative differences for high-energy electrons In some special situations qualitative differences appear Even if the radiation reaction is included in the electron classical dynamics no consistent result can be obtained Hence it should be of critical importance to submit the present HHG theory for high-precision experimental tests which can help us not only to justify the present theories but also to check the QED predictions in the high-intensity regime