A 1-D Computer Simulation Model of Collective Ion Acceleration by Linear Electron Beams.
Abstract
A 1-d electrostatic and relativistic particle code has been built in order to simulate a self-consistent way the time-dependent behavior of collective ion acceleration produced by linear electron beams injected into evacuated drift tubes. The simulation results agree with existing experimental and theoretical results by showing good current propagation and high ion energy gain in the presence of a well-localized plasma source at the e-beam injection boundary. Moreover, the simulations display an unexpected phenomenon, the appearance of short-lived regions of positive electrostatic potential (virtual anodes) which together with the usual virtual cathodes, contribute to the ion acceleration mechanism. In the absence of a suitable analytical theory, it seems to us that the present computer model is an indispensable tool for reliable explanation and optimization of present and future collective ion acceleration experiments. Use of our model in laser-plasma experiments in suggested. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1979
- Accession Number
- ADA087055
Entities
People
- A. Sternlieb
- Han S. Ulm
Organizations
- University of Maryland