Effects of an axial heat flux limit in linear theta pinches

Abstract

With a simple model for classical electron thermal conduction and an arbitrary axial density profile, the axial electron temperature profile T (z) and cooling time tc in a linear theta pinch may be computed. Densities that decrease with increasing axial position provide the more favorable conditions for the failure of classical heat conduction. Introduction of a heat flux limit in such a profile increases tc and reduces the gradient of T (z) over most of the plasma.