An MCTDHF approach to multielectron dynamics in laser fields

We introduce the multiconfiguration time-dependent Hartree-Fock (MCTDHF) method and discuss significant differences to time-dependent density functional theory. The method is applied to the ionization of one-dimensional model molecules with up to eight active electrons. Correlation significantly influences both ground-state electron densities and ionization yields. In accordance with expectations, for constant ionization potential we find an increase of ionization yields with molecular size.