Plasmas with negative ions-probe measurements and charge equilibrium

Abstract

Extensions of the electrostatic probe technique to situations with negative ions, both theoretical and experimental, are described. Charged particle distributions and the plasma-sheath boundary are discussed in relation to probe measurements. Plasmas with negative ions, their occurrence and interest, particularly situations where the negative ion density becomes comparable to or exceeds the electron density are described. Some data in negative ion containing plasmas are shown and discussed.