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Physics and AstronomyElectricity and Magnetism

Ionization of a High Energy Neutral Beam Propagating in the Ionosphere

Authors: Shu T. Lai; PHILLIPS LAB HANSCOM AFB MA
Abstract:
By using modeled stripping ionization cross sections and standard atmospheric density models, we calculate stripping ionization probability of high energy (MeV) neutral beams propagating in the earth's atmosphere. Numerical results as functions of altitude, beam angle and beam energy are presented. We also consider Alfven's critical ionization velocity (CIV) process as an alternate ionization pathway. If CIV occurs as the neutral beam propagates through the geoplasma across the ambient magnetic field, it may be an important pathway to rapid ionization halting the beam. We conclude that the parametric conditions are unfavorable for CIV to occur. Neutral Beam, Stripping, Beam Propagation, Critical Ionization Velocity, Ionosphere.

Limitations: APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE
Pages: 7
Report Date: 26 MAY 1992
Report Number: A778372
Keywords relating to this report:
*ALTITUDE
*HIGH ENERGY
*ION BEAMS
*IONIZATION
*IONOSPHERE
ANGLES
ATMOSPHERES
ATMOSPHERIC DENSITY
ATMOSPHERICS
CROSS SECTIONS
DENSITY
ENERGY
ENERGY TRANSFER
FUNCTIONS
MAGNETIC FIELDS
MODELS
NEUTRAL
PLASMAS_PHYSICS_
PROBABILITY
PROPAGATION
REPRINTS
STANDARDS
VELOCITY
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