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On the physics of relativistic double layers

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Abstract

A model of a strong, time-independent, and relativistic double layer is studied. Besides double layers having the electric field parallel to the current the model also describes a certain type of oblique double layers. The ‘Langmuir condition’ (ratio of ion current density to electron current density) as well as an expression for the potential drop of the double layer are derived. Furthermore, the distributions of charged particles, electric field, and potential within the double layer are clarified and discussed. It is found that the properties of relativistic double layers differ substantially from the properties of corresponding non-relativistic double layers.

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Carlqvist, P. On the physics of relativistic double layers. Astrophys Space Sci 87, 21–39 (1982). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00648904

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00648904

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