This article is cited in 2 papers

Theoretical and Mathematical Physics

Evolution of the ion velocity distribution after sudden turn-on of a periodic electric field: A charge exchange model

A. I. Ender^a, I. A. Ender^b, A. B. Gerasimenko<sup>a

a</sup> Ioffe Institute, St. Petersburg
^b Saint Petersburg State University

Abstract: An analytical solution to the problem of the ion velocity distribution evolution after turn-on of a periodic electric field is derived. The solution is constructed for the case of resonance charge exchange at a constant collision frequency (charge exchange model). The specific features of the transient process at the early stage of evolution are revealed. The phase shift between the applied field and the ion current at the periodic stage of the process is analyzed. The distribution function exhibits abrupt steps propagating in the velocity space. A method is proposed to study the ion-atom interaction cross section using a periodic electric field. The method is based on analysis of the current toward the electrode with a retarding potential.

Received: 06.11.2012

 English version: Technical Physics, 2013, 58:7, 936–945

Bibliographic databases:

•