Electron Kinetic Studies Utilizing the Solution of the Time-Dependent Collisional Boltzmann Equation
Abstract
In a continuing effort to analyze plasmas generated in a variety of ways, several refinements and improvements have been added to a numerical solution of the time-dependent collisional Boltzmann equation. The computational method utilized is based on the Rockwood formalism, and includes elastic collisions, excitation, ionization, and supereleastic collisions from multiple states. Attachment is also included. A non-uniform energy grid is incorporated into the method of solution, requiring new finite differenced representations for the electron flux terms from field, recoil, and electron electron interactions. All of these terms are tested independently and validated against analytic results. Implementation, complete with inelastic collisions, is validated against experimental transport data for both molecular and rare gases. A method for dynamically allocating the energy grid is an effort to optimize the computation is developed and evaluated. The inclusion of the non-uniform grid results in the consideration of larger energy ranges than previously possible.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA230753
Entities
People
- William M. Hilbun
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology