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Nonlinear analysis of a relativistic beam-plasma cyclotron instabilityA self-consistent set of nonlinear and relativistic wave-particle equations are derived for a magnetized beam-plasma system interacting with electromagnetic cyclotron waves. In particular, the high-frequency cyclotron mode interacting with a streaming and gyrating electron beam within a background plasma is considered in some detail. This interaction mode may possibly find application as a high-power source of coherent short-wavelength radiation for laboratory devices. The background plasma, although passive, plays a central role in this mechanism by modifying the dielectric properties in which the magnetized electron beam propagates. For a particular choice of the transverse beam velocity (i.e., the speed of light divided by the relativistic mass factor), the interaction frequency equals the nonrelativistic electron cyclotron frequency times the relativistic mass factor. For this choice of transverse beam velocity the detrimental effects of a longitudinal beam velocity spread is virtually removed. Power conversion efficiencies in excess of 18 percent are both analytically calculated and obtained through numerical simulations of the wave-particle equations. The quality of the electron beam, degree of energy and pitch angle spread, and its effect on the beam-plasma cyclotron instability is studied.
Document ID
19860038435
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Sprangle, P.
(U.S. Navy, Naval Research Laboratory, Washington DC, United States)
Vlahos, L.
(Maryland, University College Park, United States)
Date Acquired
August 12, 2013
Publication Date
February 1, 1986
Publication Information
Publication: Physical Review A - General Physics, 3rd Series
Volume: 33
ISSN: 0556-2791
Subject Category
Plasma Physics
Accession Number
86A23173
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAGW-81
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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