Observation of the diocotron instability in a diode with split cathode

TL;DR

This paper reports the observation of diocotron instability in a pure electron plasma within a split cathode diode, supported by a mathematical model and experimental data analysis.

Contribution

It introduces a mathematical model for the electron squeezed state and confirms the diocotron instability through experimental validation.

Findings

Diocotron instability observed in split cathode diode plasma.

Mathematical model accurately predicts plasma density.

Experimental data confirms instability presence.

Abstract

Diocotron instability has been observed in the pure electron plasma formed in a split cathode coaxial diode. This plasma consists of electrons, trapped in the longitudinal potential well between the two parts of the cathode. The mathematical model of the electron squeezed state, which allows calculation of the equilibrium plasma density, is presented. The model is applied in a comprehensive analysis of experimental data and the presence of the diocotron instability is unambiguously confirmed.