Fluid theory of ion collection by probes in strong magnetic fields with plasma flow

Journal Article · Tue Dec 01 00:00:00 EST 1987 · Phys. Fluids; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1063/1.866415· OSTI ID:5611790

Hutchinson, I H

A one-dimensional fluid theory of Langmuir probe operation in strong magnetic fields is presented. Cross-field diffusion of ions both into and out of the the collection region is consistently accounted for, in effect taking momentum and particle diffusivity to be equal. The results differ by significant factors from previous analyses, which did not account for outward diffusion but in effect set momentum diffusivity to zero. The differences are especially large when parallel flow of the external plasma is present. It is thus clear that the value assumed for the momentum diffusivity strongly affects the interpretation of recent probe measurements. It is argued that the present results offer a more reliable basis for this interpretation.

• Research Organization: Plasma Fusion Center, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139
• OSTI ID: 5611790
• Journal Information: Phys. Fluids; (United States), Vol. 30:12
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY
LANGMUIR PROBE
OPERATION
PLASMA
ION DRIFT
CROSSED FIELDS
MAGNETIC FIELDS
ONE-DIMENSIONAL CALCULATIONS
PLASMA EXPANSION
ELECTRIC PROBES
EXPANSION
PROBES
700102* - Fusion Energy- Plasma Research- Diagnostics