Abstract
A three component, one-dimensional, constant velocity, steady-state fluid model is employed to describe the breakdown waves with a current behind the wave front propagating into a neutral gas subjected to an external electric field. Electron gas partial pressure is much larger than that of the other species and therefore is considered to provide the driving force for the wave. The system of equations includes the equations of conservation of mass, momentum, and energy coupled with Poisson’s equation. Inclusion of current behind the wave front in the system of fluid equations also alters the initial boundary conditions and ionization rate. We are considering an ionization rate which changes from accelerational ionization at the front of the wave to directed velocity ionization in the intermediate stages of the wave to thermal ionization at the end of the wave. Using the modified boundary conditions, the set of electron fluid dynamical equations have been integrated through the dynamical transition region of the wave. The effect of current behind the shock front on the wave profile for electric field, electron velocity, ionization rate, electron number density, and electron temperature will be presented.
Recommended Citation
Norman, S.; Hemmati, Mostafa; and King, J.
(2008)
"Ionization Rate, Temperature, and Number Density for Breakdown Waves with a Large Current Behind the Shock Front,"
Journal of the Arkansas Academy of Science: Vol. 62, Article 13.
Available at:
https://scholarworks.uark.edu/jaas/vol62/iss1/13
