Particle Velocity Distributions and Ionization Processes in a Gas-Puff Z Pinch

Abstract

We have measured the time-dependent radial velocity distributions of singly to five times ionized ions in an imploding plasma shell by observing the spectral shapes and intensities of emission lines in various directions. An ionization wave propagating much faster than the local radial ion velocities is observed. The ionization front velocity is found to be consistent with estimates of electron heat conduction into the plasma-neutral layer. The ionization and velocity histories of the particles are experimentally determined. The mechanisms of momentum transfer to the particles are also determined and compared with existing models.