The Electron-Beam Experiment (E-Beam for short) utilizes a focused electron beam to create a column of plasma in the experiment. The interaction of electrons and neutrals with this plasma column leads to a host of interesting features students can investigate. In particular, the theoretical dispersion relationship and its predictions for instabilities can be validated, linking measured values in the lab course to topics in plasma lecture courses.
Scientific Topics Addressed: Beam-plasma generation, interaction, and electrostatic instabilities
Diagnostics Used: Langmuir Probes, Retarding Field Energy Analyzer (RFEA), Radio Antenna