Mode coupling in space- and time-varying anisotropic absorbing plasmas

Abstract

A four dimensional systematic mathematical approach for investigating propagation and coupling of wave modes in a slowly varying (in all space directions and time) anisotropic, absorbing plasma is represented. The formalism is especially useful for energy considerations of the waves. It is applicable to general cases of mode conversion in plasmas with general geometries of space-time and magnetic field configurations. A simple example of how this formalism can be applied to practical cases is given.