Simulation of Interaction Between Proton-Electron Plasma Beam and Arched Magnetic Field

Abstract

The present study investigates the interaction between a proton-electron plasma beam and an arched magnetic trap using the particle-in-cell (PIC) simulation method. The results show that when the magnetic field is sufficiently weak, the beam disrupts the arched magnetic field configuration, causing the breaking and reconnection of magnetic field lines. The relationships between the coil current threshold (the coil current at which the disruption of the magnetic induction just happens) and initial plasma velocity, and between the critical beam velocity (the plasma is just enough to reach the arched magnetic field) and coil current, are quantified. Additionally, the interaction between the beam and the arched magnetic field is observed to induce microwave excitation. These findings lay the foundation for theoretically simulating the dynamic behavior of space plasma in a unique magnetic field environment within a laboratory setting.