Study of the Magnetic Field Effect on the Electrons' Thermal Equilibrium

Abstract

The thermal equilibrium of the electrons in a plasma is very important since, if it is sustained, many approximations can be used and many problems can be solved. The magnetic field (transverse and longitudinal) effect on the electrons' thermal equilibrium is studied here using the Monte Carlo method. It is confirmed that: In the presence of a transverse magnetic field, for low values of B there is no change of the distribution function and of the transport parameters; for medium values of B the Maxwellian distribution and the steady state of the transport parameters always remain, except that the transverse diffusion coefficient is not in the steady state; for high values of B the electrons' energy also leaves the steady state. In the presence of a longitudinal magnetic field, the distribution function and the transport parameters don't change, except that the transverse diffusion coefficient decreases, but it remains in the steady state. Generally, under a magnetic field, the steady state of the electrons' energy is always achieved if the time is long enough.