Pramana

, 23:785 | Cite as

Nonlinear distribution function for a plasma obeying Vlasov-Maxwell system of equations

  • Saroj K Majumdar
Plasma Physics
Received:
Revised:
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Abstract

The nonlinear distribution function of Allis, generalised to include the transverse electromagnetic waves in a plasma, is used to set up the coupled wave equations for the longitudinal and the transverse modes. These are solved, keeping terms up to the cubic order of nonlinearity, by using the method of multiple scales. The equations of wave modulation are derived, which are solved to discuss the nature of the modulational instability and solitary wave propagation. It is found that the solutions so obtained satisfy conditions which are very similar to the well known Lighthill criterion for stability, appropriately modified due to the coupling of the two modes. The role of the average constant current due to any flow of the resonant and trapped electrons in determining the stability, is also discussed.

Keywords

Nonlinear distribution function coupled wave equations dispersion functions modulation equation modulational instability solitary wave 

PACS No.

52·35 Mw 
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Copyright information

© Indian Academy of Sciences 1984

Authors and Affiliations

  • Saroj K Majumdar
    • 1
  1. 1.Saha Institute of Nuclear PhysicsCalcuttaIndia

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