Voltage in Plasma: Difference Between Biased & Non-Biased

In summary, the conversation discusses a lab involving measuring ion density in a super-hot flame by applying a biasing voltage. The difference between a non-voltage-biased flame plasma and a voltage-biased flame plasma is that the biasing voltage increases the number of electrons available to be accelerated, resulting in an increase in electron density. This does not create resistance in the plasma, but rather boosts the thermal kinetic temperature of the electrons.
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Homework Statement



I have done a lab consisting of measuring the ion density in a flame plasma (super-hot flame). A "biasing voltage" was applied directly to the flame (via the burner), and I was wondering what is the difference between a non-voltage-biased flame plasma, and a voltage-biased flame plasma.

Homework Equations



Plasma physics
positive flame voltage, negative Langmuir probe (sweeping thru flame), positive ions landing on the probe - positive current

The Attempt at a Solution



I am guessing, that the biasing voltage merely boosts the thermal kinetic temperature of the electrons. I don't see how there could be a "resistance" in the plasma.
 
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  • #2
Therefore, the biasing voltage would increase the number of electrons available to be accelerated in the flame, thus increasing the electron density.
 

Related to Voltage in Plasma: Difference Between Biased & Non-Biased

1. What is the difference between biased and non-biased voltage in plasma?

Biased voltage in plasma refers to the application of an external electric field to the plasma, while non-biased voltage does not involve any external electric field. This external electric field can be used to control the movement of charged particles in the plasma, leading to different properties and behaviors compared to non-biased plasma.

2. How does biased voltage affect plasma properties?

Biased voltage can increase the energy of charged particles in the plasma, leading to higher temperatures and velocities. It can also influence the density and distribution of charged particles, as well as the plasma's electrical conductivity and stability.

3. What are some applications of biased and non-biased voltage in plasma?

Biased and non-biased voltage in plasma have various applications in fields such as materials processing, plasma etching, and plasma thrusters. Biased voltage can also be used in plasma-based devices such as plasma TVs and fluorescent lights to control the emission of charged particles.

4. What factors determine the voltage needed for plasma biasing?

The voltage required for plasma biasing depends on factors such as the type of plasma, the desired properties and behavior, and the experimental setup. The voltage must be high enough to overcome the plasma's internal electric fields but not too high to cause instabilities or damage to the plasma or surrounding materials.

5. Can plasma be biased in both positive and negative directions?

Yes, plasma can be biased in both positive and negative directions. Positive biasing involves applying a higher voltage to the plasma compared to its surroundings, while negative biasing involves applying a lower voltage. The direction of biasing can affect the movement and behavior of charged particles in the plasma, leading to different experimental outcomes.

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