On the electron drift velocity in plasma devices with E×B drift

Abstract

The structure and various components of the electron drift velocity are discussed in application to plasma discharges with the E×B drift. In high density plasmas, the contribution of the diamagnetic drift can be of the same order magnitude as the E×B drift. It is pointed out that curvature and gradient drifts associated with magnetic field inhomogeneities manifest themselves via the electron pressure anisotropy. Estimates show that the components of the diamagnetic drift related to the electron pressure anisotropy and magnetic field gradients can be important for the parameters of modern magnetrons and Hall thrusters. Similar additional terms appear in the momentum balance as mirror forces which may affect the distribution of the electrostatic potential in Hall devices.