Angular Distribution of Electrons in the Pinch Region of Relativistic-Electron-Beam Diodes

Pinhole bremsstrahlung photography was used to measure the angular distribution of electrons incident on the anode in the pinch region of relativistic-electron-beam diodes. It was found that the incidence angles of most of the electrons are limited to 30° with the diode axis and that the average electron direction at each point within the pinch is nearly parallel to this axis. These results may imply quite strong electric fields in the vicinity of the pinch.