The problem of the stability of a plasma created by volume ionization is considered in the low collisional range. A mechanism where the trapping of light slow particles in the plasma by the sheaths drives the plasma unstable is investigated. The problem is simulated by a one‐dimensional continuum numerical code. The instability is observed, and the proposed mechanism is demonstrated to be responsible for it. The resulting turbulence randomizes the light particle velocities. Collisions and a current driven into the plasma are shown to have stabilizing effects.
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© 1976 American Institute of Physics.
1976
American Institute of Physics
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