Application of the Lambert W function in mathematical problems of plasma physics

Abstract

Examples of solutions to transcendental equations that arise in mathematical problems of plasma physics are considered. Earlier, such equations were solved only by approximate methods. The use of a new function—the Lambert W function—has made it possible to obtain explicit exact solutions that can help to refine the existing relevant theories. As examples, the following problems from different branches of plasma physics are considered: the equilibrium charge of a dust grain in a plasma, the structure of the Bohm sheath, the diameter of the separatrix in a Galathea-Belt system, the transverse structure of an electron beam in a plasma, the energy loss rate of a test charged particle in a plasma, and the structure of the Sagdeev pseudopotential for ion acoustic waves.