Proof and analysis of the pendulum motion of beam electrons in a hollow cathode discharge

Abstract

The pendulum motion of electrons in a hollow cathode discharge accelerated in the cathode fall is demonstrated with the use of a femtosecond laser pulse and the so-called fast optogalvanic effect. The signals are described quantitatively using a Monte Carlo model for various pressure and current levels. As a result the discharge can be described by the model from start-up to high-current operation.