Physical significance of growth rate in plasma

In summary, the conversation discusses a dispersion relation curve and an instability curve for a magnetised plasma, formulated through kinetic theory and normalized with respect to the proton cyclotron frequency. The question is posed about the physical significance of these plots, and the individual's background in post-graduate level studies is also mentioned. Links to research articles are provided for further clarification.
  • #1
sreerajt
39
1
Let us say that we have a dispersion relation curve and associated instability curve as shown below for a magnetised plasma, which have been formulated through kinetic theory. The frequencies and growth rate have been normalized w.r.t. cyclotron frequency of proton.
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My question is: what does this both plot physically signifies?
 

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  • #2
sreerajt said:
......
My question is: what does this both plot physically signifies?
You have marked your thread with an "A" tag signifying post graduate level ...
So what study / readings have you been doing so far ... show some links
show us what parts of them that you do not understand so that people here might
be able to help you
 
  • #3
davenn said:
You have marked your thread with an "A" tag signifying post graduate level ...
So what study / readings have you been doing so far ... show some links
show us what parts of them that you do not understand so that people here might
be able to help you
This kind of graph appears at many places where one invoke kinetic theory to study plasma. E.g. kindly see research article at:
  1. https://www.cambridge.org/core/jour...-instability/86419F5E132B4437D6DDAD0469179B6C
  2. https://www.cambridge.org/core/jour...e-ion-plasma/2685E71532119D417D1C6B8E1FE23FD7
 

1. What is the physical significance of growth rate in plasma?

The growth rate in plasma refers to the rate at which the number of particles in a plasma system increases over time. It is a crucial factor in understanding the behavior and dynamics of plasma, which is a state of matter consisting of charged particles. The physical significance of growth rate lies in its ability to determine the stability and evolution of plasma systems.

2. How is growth rate measured in plasma?

Growth rate in plasma is usually measured by analyzing the temporal evolution of the plasma parameters, such as particle density, temperature, and electric fields. These parameters are measured using various diagnostic techniques, such as Langmuir probes, spectroscopy, and interferometry. The growth rate can also be calculated using theoretical models and simulations.

3. What factors affect the growth rate in plasma?

The growth rate in plasma is influenced by several factors, including the initial conditions of the plasma system, external forces such as electric and magnetic fields, and the properties of the particles in the plasma. Additionally, the presence of instabilities, such as turbulence and collisions, can also affect the growth rate in plasma systems.

4. How does the growth rate impact plasma applications?

The growth rate plays a crucial role in many plasma applications, such as plasma processing, nuclear fusion, and space propulsion. In plasma processing, the growth rate determines the efficiency of material processing and the quality of the final product. In nuclear fusion, the growth rate affects the stability and confinement of the plasma, which is essential for achieving sustained fusion reactions. In space propulsion, the growth rate influences the thrust and performance of plasma thrusters.

5. Can the growth rate in plasma be controlled?

Yes, the growth rate in plasma can be controlled by adjusting the external forces, particle properties, and plasma parameters. This control is achieved through various methods such as changing the magnetic field strength, altering the gas composition, and adjusting the temperature of the plasma. Additionally, active control techniques, such as feedback control and plasma shaping, can also be used to control the growth rate in certain plasma systems.

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