Abstract
During the process of plasma initiation by an electromagnetic wave, it is found that the electron energy distribution function (EEDF) that is initially Maxwellian with the most probable energy at room temperature, evolves with time and tends toward a Bi-Maxwellian – indicating attainment of thermodynamic equilibrium in the individual electron populations prior to breakdown, with a significant increase in hot electron density. In the intermediate states during the evolution, however, non-equilibrium processes are prevalent under fast pulse excitation and the EEDF initially exhibits substantial deviation from a Maxwellian. An analysis of the deviation has been carried out by optimizing the residual sum of squares of the probabilities obtained from the simulation and a fitted Maxwellian curve. The equilibrium regain time defined as the time required to attain thermodynamic equilibrium again, is investigated as a function of neutral pressure, wave electric, and external magnetostatic fields.
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.
