The problem of “anomalous” ion transport in high-current vacuum discharges

Abstract

This paper gives an exhaustive theoretical description of the so-called “anomalous” ion transport phenomenon that exists in vacuum diodes with cathode plasma emission. The phenomenon is represented by the cathode plasma directed movement towards anode. In general terms, the “anomality” means that metal ions are accelerated towards an electrode with a higher electrostatic potential (anode). The theoretical description is given within the framework of a one-dimensional kinetic model, which is based on the Vlasov-Poisson system of equations for plasma and electrostatic field components. Time-dependent accurate numerical solution of this system describes the process evolution leading to “anomalous” ion transport. It was shown that the “anomalous” transport has fast electrodynamic nature.