Stochastic ion heating by lower hybrid turbulence

Abstract

The motion of an ion in a spectrum of lower hybrid waves propagating across a constant magnetic field is examined. In particular, numerical simulation is used to determine the extent to which a turbulent spectrum of these electrostatic waves may accelerate thermal ions (T < 1 eV). The significance of stochastic web development in this heating process is also discussed. 20 refs., 31 figs.