Mean square displacement and instantaneous diffusion coefficient of charged particles in stochastic motion

Abstract

The mean square displacement and instantaneous diffusion coefficient for different configurations of charged particles in stochastic motion are calculated by numerically solving the associated equations of motion. The method is suitable for obtaining accurate descriptions of diffusion in both intermediate and long time regimes. It is also appropriate for studying a variety of astrophysical configurations since it may incorporate microscopic physics that analytical methods cannot cope with. The results show that, in the intermediary time regime, the diffusion coefficient has an irregular behavior, which can be described in terms of the complex interplay appearing between the physical parameters describing the configuration. The main conclusion is that such an approach may serve at differential diagnosis of different astrophysical configurations.