Positron acceleration to ultrarelativistic energies by an oblique magnetosonic shock wave in an electron-positron-ion plasma

Journal Article · Sat Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 2005 · Physics of Plasmas

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1063/1.1827624· OSTI ID:20657956

Hasegawa, Hiroki; Ohsawa, Yukiharu ^[1]

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1. Theory and Computer Simulation Center, National Institute for Fusion Science, Toki 509-5292 (Japan)

Positron acceleration in a shock wave in a plasma consisting of electrons, positrons, and ions is studied with theory and simulations. From the relativistic equation of motion, it is found that an oblique shock wave can accelerate some positrons with the energy increase rate proportional to E{center_dot}B. They move nearly parallel to the external magnetic field, staying in the shock transition region for long periods of time. Then, this acceleration is demonstrated with one-dimensional, relativistic, electromagnetic particle simulations with full particle dynamics. Some positrons have been accelerated to ultrarelativistic energies ({gamma}{approx}1000) with this mechanism. Parametric study of this acceleration is also made.

• OSTI ID: 20657956
• Journal Information: Physics of Plasmas, Journal Name: Physics of Plasmas Journal Issue: 1 Vol. 12; ISSN PHPAEN; ISSN 1070-664X
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY
ACCELERATION
MAGNETOACOUSTIC WAVES
PLASMA GUNS
PLASMA SIMULATION
POSITRONS
RELATIVISTIC PLASMA
SHOCK WAVES