Abstract
We review measured and calculated voltages and cathode-fallthicknesses against current and electrode separation for parallel-plane Arglow discharges in the above-normal, or abnormal, current range. We considerdc and pulsed discharges, but not radio-frequency discharges. Reasons for thevery high degree of variability among experiments and models are reviewed andsuggestions are made for improving the reliability of both. Variations of afactor of two in experimental cathode-fall voltages at a fixed normalizedcurrent density are attributed to differences in the cathode emissionproperties, varying electrode separation, and effects of discharge tube walls.We explore a wide range of normalized current densities, models of theionization coefficient against E/n, and the effective electron yields perpositive ion reaching the cathode using simple scaling laws. Ionization sourceterms for local-field and non-local-field models are compared and used as thebasis for a simplified non-local model. We discuss the present author'srecommendation that, because of current large uncertainties in the electronyield per ion for practical cathodes, the yield used in cathode-fall modelsshould be treated as an unknown. Recent models successfully predict thebehaviour of transient abnormal discharges on the microsecond time scale.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
