Self-consistent electron and ion flows in a fast Z-pinch
Alexander N. DOLGOV · Plasma Physics Reports · 2005
Results are presented from experimental studies of fast Z-pinches produced in plasmas of high- Z elements. An analysis of a plasma structure emitting X radiation and time-resolved measurements of the electron emission showed that a self-consistent regime of electron and ion motion is established in the plasma channel of the discharge. It was found that, in this regime, the electron component makes a negative contribution to the net current and an electrically neutral supersonic plasma flow propagates along the discharge axis in the direction of the net current.