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An asymptotic state of the critical ionization velocity phenomenonThe paper considers the problem of how the momentum of ions created by electron impact ionization of neutrals moving at a speed v(0) perpendicular to the magnetic field through a background plasma is coupled to this plasma. It has been found that the plasma accelerates, and the relative velocity between neutrals and plasma decreases. If this decrease is rapid and large enough, the critical ionization velocity (CIV) phenomenon may turn off. Equations for the evolution of plasma density, electron and ion thermal energy, and plasma velocity have been derived. It was found that the CIV process reaches an asymptotic quasi-steady state, in which the ionization rate reaches a constant value which depends on the properties of the surrounding medium and the value of v(0).
Document ID
19860039659
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Goertz, C. K.
(Iowa Univ. Iowa City, IA, United States)
Machida, S.
(Iowa, University Iowa City, United States)
Smith, R. A.
(Science Application International Corp. McLean, VA, United States)
Date Acquired
August 12, 2013
Publication Date
December 1, 1985
Publication Information
Publication: Journal of Geophysical Research
Volume: 90
ISSN: 0148-0227
Subject Category
Plasma Physics
Accession Number
86A24397
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSG-7632
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSF ATM-81-1126
CONTRACT_GRANT: NGL-16-001-002
CONTRACT_GRANT: NGL-16-001-043
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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