A Monte Carlo Investigation of E x B Discharges in Molecular Nitrogen

Abstract

A Monte Carlo simulation method has been developed and tested using the ramp model gas proposed by Reid (1979). This method is particularly useful for investigations in gases which must be modelled using many cross sections. This paper reports various phenomena associated with Townsend discharges in ExB fields in nitrogen. Of particular interest is the relative importance of terms in the density gradient expansion of the electron energy distribution function. Simulations are conducted to assist in the interpretation of data from experimental techniques, particularly the 'photon flux' method.