Direct conversion of a fast wave into ion Bernstein modes caused by density fluctuations

Journal Article · Fri Nov 01 04:00:00 EST 1985 · Phys. Fluids; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1063/1.865328· OSTI ID:5200351

Morales, G J; Antani, S N; Fried, B D

An analytical study is presented of the interaction between a fast Alfven wave having a frequency larger than the ion-cyclotron frequency, and low frequency density fluctuations. When appropriate k, ..omega.. matching conditions are satisfied, the interaction results in a beat current that acts as an in-situ antenna, exciting ion Bernstein modes resonantly. Since such modes have relatively small damping for large parallel phase velocities, their excitation can significantly enhance the damping of fast waves having small k/sub parallel/, particularly in those regions of the plasma where the temperature is relatively low. The interaction with coherent, as well as with broad band density fluctuations is investigated, and the role of plasma nonuniformities is examined. Specific features of relevance to ion-cyclotron range of frequency heating of tokamak plasmas are considered.

• Research Organization: Physics Department, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90024
• OSTI ID: 5200351
• Journal Information: Phys. Fluids; (United States), Journal Name: Phys. Fluids; (United States) Vol. 28:11; ISSN PFLDA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY
700101 -- Fusion Energy-- Plasma Research-- Confinement
Heating
& Production
700108* -- Fusion Energy-- Plasma Research-- Wave Phenomena
ALFVEN WAVES
ANALYTICAL SOLUTION
BERNSTEIN MODE
CONVERSION
ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION
ENERGY CONVERSION
FLUCTUATIONS
HYDROMAGNETIC WAVES
INTERACTIONS
OSCILLATION MODES
PLASMA
PLASMA DENSITY
RADIATIONS
VARIATIONS
WAVE PROPAGATION