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Quasilinear theory of Cherenkov-drift instability
David Shapakidze1, George Machabeli, George Melikidze
1International Center for Dense Magnetized Plasma, Institute of Plasma Physics and Laser Microfusion, Hery 23, 01-497 Warsaw, Poland.
Summary
We studied Cherenkov-drift instability in magnetized electron-positron plasma. Particle curvature drift is key, leading to resonant particle diffusion in momentum space.
Area of Science:
- Plasma Physics
- Astrophysics
- Relativistic Electrodynamics
Background:
- Cherenkov-drift instability occurs in relativistic magnetized plasmas.
- Electron-positron plasmas are relevant to astrophysical environments like pulsar magnetospheres.
- Particle beams can significantly influence plasma dynamics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the linear and quasilinear stages of Cherenkov-drift instability.
- To investigate the role of curvature drift in instability development.
- To derive expressions for diffusion coefficients and validate approximations.
Main Methods:
- Theoretical analysis of linear and quasilinear instability stages.
- Incorporation of particle curvature drift in magnetized plasma.
- Derivation of diffusion coefficients in momentum space.
- Numerical estimations using pulsar magnetosphere parameters.
Main Results:
- Curvature drift of beam particles is crucial for Cherenkov-drift instability.
- Quasilinear relaxation results in resonant particle diffusion in momentum space.
- Expressions for diffusion coefficients were obtained.
- Numerical estimations validated the theoretical approximations.
Conclusions:
- The study provides a theoretical framework for Cherenkov-drift instability in relevant astrophysical plasmas.
- The findings are applicable to understanding particle dynamics in pulsar magnetospheres.
- The derived diffusion coefficients are essential for modeling particle relaxation.