Particle Acceleration in Space and Radiation Belt Depletion.
Abstract
Particle acceleration and the accompanying radiation belt depletion are studied theoretically. The effect of stochastic particle acceleration on a distribution of electrons is studied using a finite element method, combined with resonance overlap techniques. In particular cases, these are also studied using particle simulations and good agreement is found. We next focus on particle acceleration in the Alfven wave maser. It is shown that the maser is naturally well-confined but will not lead to significant acceleration. It is shown, however, that the kinetic Alfven wave will lead to significant acceleration, although it has to be ducted to remain confined. An experimental approach to stimulate these waves artificially by heating electrons is then proposed.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 30, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA240311
Entities
People
- C. R. Menyuk
- D. Papadopoulos
Organizations
- Leidos