Abstract
A two-dimensional numerical study of the expansion of a dense plasma through a more rarefied one is reported. The electrostatic ion-acoustic shock, which is generated during the expansion, accelerates the electrons of the rarefied plasma inducing a superthermal population which reduces electron thermal anisotropy. The Weibel instability is therefore not triggered and no self-generated magnetic fields are observed, in contrast with published theoretical results dealing with plasma expansion into vacuum.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | EAS Publications Series |
Pages | 33-36 |
Number of pages | 4 |
Volume | 58 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 01 Jan 2012 |