NEUTRON AND X-RAY PRODUCTION IN A FOCUSED Z-PINCH.
Abstract
Diagnostic studies were made of the neutrons and x rays produced by a paraboloidal geometry Z-pinch device (700 mTorr D2, 15 kJ). The neutron energy spectra at zero and 180 deg relative to the electric field applied at the pinch axis were obtained by nuclear emulsion techniques; they resemble the spectra obtained for linear pinches. The energy anisotropy can be explained in terms of a 90- to 130-keV deuteron beam that strikes stationary deuterons. Ross filters reveal complex x-ray spectra from 7 to 88 keV, while absorber studies reveal x radiation up to 350 keV. The spectrum from 7.11 to 29.2 keV is insensitive to neutron yield and fits the function omega to the -1.7 power, as does plasma bremsstrahlung from the electron energy distribution E to the -2.2 power. The relationship between the power-law spectrum and current MHD turbulence theories is discussed. The presence of energetic x rays and fast deuterons is not consistent with the boiler model of neutron production recently proposed by the Fillipovs. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1967
- Accession Number
- AD0665416
Entities
People
- David A. Meskan
- Gerald G. Comisar
- Hugo L. L. Van Paassen
Organizations
- The Aerospace Corporation