Interpretation of experiments in laser-driven fusion
Abstract
It is shown that the number and energy distribution of superthermal electrons produced in a laser-heated plasma can be quantitatively obtained directly from experimental X-ray spectra on the assumption that the fast electrons lose energy by bremsstrahlung and electron-electron collisions. The result is independent of the spatial and temporal distribution of electron density and temperature. The effects of electrostrictive forces on a laser-heated plasma are then calculated for different laser wavelengths by means of a standard hydrodynamic code. Large density discontinuities and marked fluctuations in reflectivity are predicted. Calculations of shell implosions show a marked dependence on wavelength at wavelengths below one micron.
- Publication:
-
Plasma Physics: Nonlinear Theory and Experiments
- Pub Date:
- 1977
- Bibcode:
- 1977ppnt.proc....9B
- Keywords:
-
- Electron Density (Concentration);
- Electron Energy;
- Electrostriction;
- Laser Fusion;
- Magnetohydrodynamics;
- X Ray Spectra;
- Bremsstrahlung;
- Density Distribution;
- Electron Scattering;
- Energy Distribution;
- Plasma Density;
- Plasma Physics