The effect of perturbations in the potential near the cathode on micropinch formation in a Z-pinch plasma

Journal Article · Sun Aug 01 04:00:00 EDT 1993 · Plasma Physics Reports

OSTI ID:56806

Kargin, I A; Mironov, B N ^[1]

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1. Institute for Innovative and Thermonuclear Studies, Troitsk (Russian Federation)

An attempt is made to relate repeated micropinches in the plasma observed during a single discharge with perturbations of the potential near the cathode. The experiments were carried out using a low-inductance vacuum spark with a discharge current of {approx_equal}200 kA. The plasma was formed from material of the anode, which was made of copper. A relation was established between the time behavior of the potential at the igniting electrode and the time distribution of the micropinches in the plasma. It is shown that the plasma may {open_quotes}remember{close_quotes} the initial conditions for 1 {mu}s. It appears that the decisive factor in the formation of micropinches is the presence of perturbations in the material density near the anode, which can be initiated by modulating the electron beam formed in the cold plasma during the initial stage of the discharge. The experiments indicate that repeated micropinches can be produced in a controlled fashion. 7 refs., 5 figs.

• OSTI ID: 56806
• Journal Information: Plasma Physics Reports, Journal Name: Plasma Physics Reports Journal Issue: 8 Vol. 19; ISSN PPHREM; ISSN 1063-780X
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY
CATHODES
DISTURBANCES
ELECTRIC POTENTIAL
LINEAR Z PINCH DEVICES
X-RAY SOURCES