TIME-RESOLVED ENERGY DISTRIBUTIONS IN A STRIATING DISCHARGE.
Abstract
Preliminary results are reported for time-resolved Langmuir probe measurements made in a striating neon discharge. The presence of large amplitude moving striations of frequencies of a few kHz required the use of a recently developed sample-and-hold diagnostic system for analysis. This system allows one to obtain digital probe current data with an accuracy greater than 0.3% and compatible with computer reduction. Numerical analysis of the data provides the second-derivative and also determines the electron energy distribution, having identified space potential from the second derivative. The measurements show that the distribution is non-Maxwellian; in particular, preceeding the peak of the light intensity fluctuation, there exists a high energy group of electrons. The relaxation of this group through the phase of the striation is demonstrated and examples of the dependence on other discharge parameters are given. Measurements were made for two wave types distinguished by their products E lambda where E is the longitudinal electric field and lambda the wavelength of the striation. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1970
- Accession Number
- AD0710597
Entities
People
- A. Garscadden
- R. F. Weber
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory