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Updated: Jul 22, 2026

Scanning-probe Single-electron Capacitance Spectroscopy
Published on: July 30, 2013
Inductive heating and E to H transitions in capacitive discharges
P Chabert1, J-L Raimbault, P Levif
1LPTP, Ecole Polytechnique, 91128 Palaiseau, France. chabert@lptp.polytechnique.fr
This study presents an electromagnetic model for capacitive discharges, revealing that plasma can be sustained by electric (E) or magnetic (H) fields. The discharge transitions between E and H field dominance as voltage increases.
Area of Science:
- Plasma Physics
- Electromagnetism
- Electrical Discharges
Background:
- Classical capacitive discharge models rely on electrostatic approximations.
- Electromagnetic effects become crucial when excitation wavelength and plasma skin depth are finite.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and solve an electromagnetic model for capacitive discharges applicable across a wide range of parameters.
- To investigate the influence of electromagnetic fields on plasma sustainment.
Main Methods:
- Solving an electromagnetic model for capacitive discharges.
- Analyzing the behavior of electric (E) and magnetic (H) fields within the plasma.
Main Results:
- The plasma can be sustained by either the capacitive (E) field or the inductive (H) field.
- A transition from E-field to H-field dominance occurs as the inter-electrode voltage is increased.
Conclusions:
- The developed electromagnetic model provides a comprehensive description of capacitive discharges.
- Understanding E to H field transitions is key to controlling and optimizing plasma behavior in various applications.
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