Formation and time development of spark channel in strong magnetic field

Abstract

Abstract The characteristics of the spark channel plasma formed in the external longitudinal magnetic field are studied experimentally. In experiment, the current-voltage, optical, and spectral characteristics of the discharge were measured and analyzed. Synchronization of the pulsed electric and magnetic fields was performed. The effect of the magnetic field on the radial expansion of the spark channel, the shock wave formation, as well as the changes in the balance of energy and temperature in the ionized plasma of the high-pressure gas discharge were analyzed. It was found out that, in the strong longitudinal magnetic field, the temperatures of electrons and ions in the spark channel (ne ∼ 1018 cm−3) become equal. The current density, the plasma channel conductivity of the spark channel, and the specific energy deposition into the discharge increased. The channel plasma parameters were analyzed as functions of the external magnetic field.