Distribution Function and Balance of the Number of Electrons in the Double Layer of an Arc Discharge in Mercury Vapor

Abstract

An electric double layer in gas-discharge plasma in mercury vapor has been studied. The currentvoltage characteristic and electron energy distribution function are measured in anode plasma of an arc discharge in mercury vapor. The distribution function curves of thermal electrons have been obtained. The structure of the layers of space charges has been experimentally studied, and the relationship between the potential distribution and the electron energy distribution function with this structure was established. It is revealed that the potential in collisionless plasma exceeds the equivalent electron temperature by an order of magnitude.