Theory of collisionless damping of cavitons and resonant particle acceleration

Abstract

A theory is proposed that describes in a self-consistent manner damping and particle acceleration within cavitons. The framework of the approach makes it possible to formulate a set of self-consistent equations taking into account the change in the particle distribution function due to the interaction with cavitons and the damping of the waves within the cavitons due to the interaction with resonant particles. The spatial inhomogeneity of the distribution function of resonant particles in the vicinity of a caviton produces a new type of damping. The new damping mechanism is present for any inhomogeneity produced both by the other cavitons (or empty cavitons) in a strongly turbulent plasma or by any other source. This new type of damping is important for arresting wave collapse.