Ambipolar Diffusion in a Magnetic Field

Abstract

Diffusion of ions in a plasma across a magnetic field is shown to be not ambipolar in character in most arc experiments. Owing to the highly anisotropic conductivity of the medium, the ions diffuse across the field at their own intrinsic rate. Space-charge neutralization is maintained by slight adjustments of the currents in the direction of the magnetic field lines. The discrepancy between theory and experiment noted by Bohm is thus resolved and no additional mechanisms, such as plasma oscillations, need be postulated.