Abstract
The linear and nonlinear properties of large-amplitude electron-acoustic waves are investigated in a magnetized plasma comprising two distinct electron populations (hot and cold) and immobile ions. The hot electrons are assumed to be in a non-Maxwellian state, characterized by an excess of superthermal particles, here modeled by a kappa-type long-tailed distribution function. Waves are assumed to propagate obliquely to the ambient magnetic field. Two types of electrostatic modes are shown to exist in the linear regime, and their properties are briefly analyzed. A nonlinear pseudopotential-type analysis reveals the existence of large-amplitude electrostatic solitary waves and allows for an investigation of their propagation characteristics and existence domain, in terms of the soliton speed (Mach number). The effects of the key plasma configuration parameters, namely the superthermality index and the cold electron density, on the soliton characteristics and existence domain, are studied. The role of obliqueness and magnetic field is discussed.
Original language | English |
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Article number | 105016 |
Pages (from-to) | 105016/1- |
Journal | Plasma Physics and Controlled Fusion |
Volume | 54 |
Issue number | 105016 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Oct 2012 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Nuclear Energy and Engineering