Electron Temperatures in Ultracold Plasmas
Abstract
We present a simulation of an ultracold neutral plasma in a uniform electric field (ℓ=1). Electrons are trapped in the space-charge ``well'' of the ions. The applied electric field changes the well shape, allowing electrons near the top of the well to escape. The fraction of electrons that escape is determined by the electron distribution function, and is therefore an indication of the electron temperature. We present our determination of the electron temperature as a function of time for a freely expanding ultracold neutral plasma.
- Publication:
-
APS Division of Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics Meeting Abstracts
- Pub Date:
- May 2003
- Bibcode:
- 2003APS..DMP.L3006H