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Strong double-layer formation by shock waves in nonequilibrium plasmas.
P Bletzinger1, B N Ganguly, A Garscadden
1Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio 45433-7919, USA. Biswa.ganguly@wpafb.af.mil
Summary
Acoustic shock waves in nitrogen plasma create strong double layers, significantly heating electrons. These double layers, with large voltage jumps, are driven by the shock wave
Area of Science:
- Plasma Physics
- Acoustic Waves
- Shock Waves
Background:
- Low-pressure nitrogen (N2) positive column plasma.
- Acoustic shock waves (
Purpose of the Study:
- Quantify double-layer formation by acoustic shock waves.
- Investigate electron heating mechanisms near the shock front.
Main Methods:
- Measurements of voltage jump.
- Quantification of plasma emission (B (3)Pi(g)-A (3)Sigma(+)(u)).
- Electron density measurements.
Main Results:
- Strong double-layer formation observed near the shock front.
- Significant electron heating effects, including localized excitation and ionization.
- Large polarity dependence of effects and potential jumps (>20 kT(e)).
Conclusions:
- Acoustic shock waves drive the formation of strong double layers in N2 plasma.
- These double layers are responsible for shock-induced electron heating.
- Double-layer formation is maintained by the traveling shock front.