Theory for resonant ion acceleration by nonlinear magnetosonic fast and slow waves in finite beta plasmas

Journal Article · Sun Jun 01 04:00:00 EDT 1986 · Phys. Fluids; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1063/1.865614· OSTI ID:5761736

Ohsawa, Y

A Korteweg--de Vries equation that is applicable to both the nonlinear magnetosonic fast and slow waves is derived from a two-fluid model with finite ion and electron pressures. As in the cold plasma theory, the fast wave has a critical angle theta/sub c/. For propagation angles greater than theta/sub c/ (quasiperpendicular propagation), the fast wave has a positive soliton, whereas for angles smaller than theta/sub c/, it has a negative soliton. Finite ..beta.. effects decrease the value of theta/sub c/. The slow wave has a positive soliton for all angles of propagation. The magnitude of resonant ion acceleration (the v/sub p/ x B acceleration) by the nonlinear fast and slow waves is evaluated. In the fast wave, the electron pressure makes the acceleration stronger for all propagation angles. The decrease in theta/sub c/ resulting from finite ..beta.. effects results in broadening of the region of strong acceleration. It is also found that fairly strong ion acceleration can occur in the nonlinear slow wave in high ..beta.. plasmas. The possibility of unlimited acceleration of ions by quasiperpendicular magnetosonic fast waves is discussed.

• Research Organization: Institute of Plasma Physics, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464, Japan
• OSTI ID: 5761736
• Journal Information: Phys. Fluids; (United States), Journal Name: Phys. Fluids; (United States) Vol. 29:6; ISSN PFLDA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY
700108* -- Fusion Energy-- Plasma Research-- Wave Phenomena
ACCELERATION
CHARGED PARTICLES
COLLISIONLESS PLASMA
DISPERSION RELATIONS
HYDROMAGNETIC WAVES
IONS
LOW-BETA PLASMA
MAGNETOACOUSTIC WAVES
NONLINEAR PROBLEMS
PLASMA
PLASMA PRESSURE
RESONANCE