PLASMA VORTICES IN THE COAXIAL ACCELERATOR, VOLUME I.

The flow of plasma in a coaxial accelerator of large aspect ratio and with center conductor negative is studied with a variety of diagnostic techniques. Measurements of radial current density, azimuthal magnetic field, radial and axial electric fields, ion density and plasma flow density are utilized to detect and study plasma vortices behind the current sheet. The most salient characteristic of the plasma vortex is the rotation of plasma without shear as in the ideal hydrodynamical vortex core. A model of the plasma vortex based on the guiding center equations is constructed. Agreement between this model and experimental results is favorable. Author