Nonlinear Excitation of Plasma Convection

Abstract

Parametric excitations of electrosta~ic convective cells by drift \c'aves as well as magnctostntic cells by -4lfv6n waves are considered. The growth rates are calculated for various limits of interest to plasma diffusion studies; our results agree with computer simulations. The problem of crossfield diffusion i5 also discussed. Finally, the coupling of mugnetostatic modes wit11 electrost ttic modes is investignted atid a vnriiitional principle for coalescence of magnetic isldnds is formulated.