Threshold Criteria for a Space-Simulation Beam-Plasma-Discharge.
Abstract
We have conducted an experimental and theoretical study of the threshold characteristics of a space-simulation beam-plasma-discharge (BPD) with emphasis on density profiles and density-dependent ignition criteria. The study included various beam-plasma conditions covering beam currents from 8 to 85 ma, beam energies from 0.8 to 2.0 ke V and magnetic fields at 0.9 and 1.5 gauss. The study included experimental determinations of radial profiles of electron density for each of the selected conditions extending from a low-density per-BPD state to a strong BPD condition. At BPD threshold it was determined that 3.9 < or = omega p/omega c < or = 5.8 was the density-dependent ignition criterion. The experimental results are shown to agree with detailed model calculations which consider the BPD to be produced by large amplitude electron plasma waves resulting from the beam-plasma interaction. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 23, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADA104937
Entities
People
- C. S. Lin
- D. N. Walker
- Edward P. Szuszczewicz
- Konbtantinopsa Dennis Papadopoulos
- W. Bernstein
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory