APPLIED PHYSICS

Generation of a strong high frequency field harmonics in a partially ionized gas upon impact ionizations of atoms

M. V. Kuzelev, A. A. Rukhadze
A. M. Prokhorov General Physics Institute of the RAS, Moscow, Russia

   The generation of harmonics of a strong high frequency field in a partially ionized gas during impact ionizations of atoms by oscillating electrons is studied theoretically. Fields are considered under conditions when oscillation energy of electrons in the radiation field, remaining nonrelativistic, considerably axceeds the ionization potential of an atom. In addition, the radiation field is assumed weak compared to the atomic field (E_a=5.1·10⁹ V/cm), which allowed us to neglect the field ionization of atoms, taking into account only the impact ionizations of atoms by oscillating electrons. Under such conditions, along with the elastic scattering of oscillating electrons, the inelastic scattering of oscillating electrons accompanied by ionization of gas atoms can make a sagnificant contribution to a nonlinear current induced in the plasma. The efficiencies of field harmonic generation in the elastic and inelastic electron scattering are compared to each other and the dominant mechanism is determined.

PACS: 42.65.Ky; 42.50.Hz

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