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Neutral Atom Diffusion in a Partially Ionized Prominence PlasmaThe support of solar prominences is normally described in terms of a magnetic force on the prominence plasma that balances the solar gravitational force. Because the prominence plasma is only partially ionized. it is necessary to consider in addition the support of the neutral component of the prominence plasma. This support is accomplished through a frictional interaction between the neutral and ionized components of the plasma, and its efficacy depends strongly on the degree of ionization of the plasma. More specifically, the frictional force is proportional to the relative flow of neutral and ion species, and for a sufficiently weakly ionized plasma, this flow must be relatively large to produce a frictional force that balances gravity. A large relative flow, of course, implies significant draining of neutral particles from the prominence. We evaluate the importance of this draining effect for a hydrogen-helium plasma, and consider the observational evidence for cross-field diffusion of neutral prominence material,
Document ID
20100031240
Acquisition Source
Goddard Space Flight Center
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Gilbert, Holly
(NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, MD, United States)
Date Acquired
August 25, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 2010
Subject Category
Plasma Physics
Meeting Information
Meeting: Partially Ionized Plasmas throughout the Cosomos
Location: Huntsville, AL
Start Date: October 3, 2010
End Date: October 8, 2010
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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