Study of the ionization properties of hydrogen in the presence of relatively strong magnetostatic fields
Abstract
Scope of Study: The objective of this study is to present an engineering orientated investigation into the ionization properties of hydrogen in the presence of a relatively strong magnetostatic field (i.e., approximately 0.6 to 5 kilogauss) with rf excitation over the frequency range of 2 to 30 MHz. The method of study involves an analysis based upon solutions to the Lorentz Force Equation, the design and construction of an experimental system and apparatus for taking data in the framework of this theory, and the tabulation and analysis of the experimental results obtained from this system. The experimental work is carried out at reduced pressures, varying approximately from one to six millimeters of mercury. Findings and Conclusions: Certain values of magnetic intensity are found to be optimum in the sense that their application allows a minimal degree of ionization to be maintained in the gas with the least magnitude of rf excitation. This is explained as the result of a resonance phenomenon whicl1 was predicted in the analysis. An extensive data mapping of these optimum magnetic intensity values throughout the range of excitation frequencies is given and compared with the theory. Reasonable agreement is found at the lower excitation frequencies, but it is concluded that the theory is not adequate to predict conditions at the higher excitation frequencies. It is hoped that the results of this study may be of aid to those searching for new and improved methods of energy conversion.
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- OSU Dissertations [11222]