Dissipation of Langmuir waves in the process of their nonlinear conversion into electromagnetic waves

Abstract

A new equation for the kinetics of nonlinear conversion of Langmuir waves to electromagnetic waves is developed. Based on this, the former vision of Langmuir turbulence energy thermalization via stochastic plasma electron acceleration (Erofeev 2010 J. Fusion Energy29, 337) is adapted to weakly turbulent plasmas in which this three-wave process occurs. Respective analysis of wave energy dissipation is extended to account for previously unrecognized terms in the kinetics of plasma electrons. It is stated that, cumulatively, these terms do not lead to substantial changes in the picture of Langmuir turbulence dissipation in the corresponding nonlinear plasma.