The comparison of two-term Boltzmann approximation and Monte-Carlo solutions for e+Ar0 plasma

Abstract

In this paper, we examine the energy distribution function of electrons in the case of a very weakly ionized argon plasma at sub-atmospheric pressure and external electric field using Boltzmann kinetic equation. We consider a spatially uniform model because our primary interest is the behavior of the collisional part of the equation. The purpose of the study is to compare two different numerical approaches: a deterministic one (using two-term local non-stationary approximation) and a stochastic approach (using the Monte Carlo method) over a wide range of reduced electric fields. We compare steady-state and time-dependent solutions, isotropic and anisotropic parts of the electron energy distribution function, and reaction constants. The research will also help to identify any limitations and challenges of these methods.