Analytical Investigation of Emitting Probes in an Ionized Plasma.
Abstract
Analytical and computer-model studies have been made of the electrostatic potentials achieved by electron- and ion-emitting atmospheric probes. The variables that were considered include the beam species, their energy and current, the density and temperature of the ambient plasma, ionization of the neutral atmosphere by the plasma electrons which supply the replacement current for electron-emitting probes, and the effects of the geomagnetic field on trajectories of the charged particles. Mean ionization distances as large as 100 meters have a pronounced effect on the potentials of electron-emitting probes for beam currents greater than 0.01 amperes. The calculations indicate a peak in the I-V curve for such probes. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 12, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADA104166
Entities
People
- A. J. Woods
- E. P. Wenaas
- H. H. Klein
- R. E. Leadon