Purpose

We are using modern parallel computers to further our understanding of the physics of plasmas. Plasma physics is a relatively new science. Its physics is rich and full of many unexpected phenomena. Investigating and understanding these phenomena often leads to their practical application. For example, the possibility of spontaneous current generation in fusion plasmas fueled at their center could have a large impact on the practicality of fusion devices. We have found this physical phenomenon in computer modeling, and experimental evidence for it exists. Similar processes go on in space and throughout the universe. l and practical importance.

PIC Simulation of Shear Alfven Waves by Frank Tsung


(Click here for Simulation Results)	LAPD Image courtesy of Prof. W. Gekelman)	Click picture for movie

_{Using a 2+1/2D PIC (Particle-in-Cell)
code with an external antenna, we have been able to successfully launch
an shear Alfven wave on the Appleseed cluster. Although this research is
at an early stage, we believe that Appleseed cluster will provide sufficient
resource to fully study this problem.}

_{These waves are important
in both space plasmas and laboratory plasmas, like those studied in the
LAPD (LArge Plasma Device) experiment here at UCLA.(below left).}

_{(LAPD image courtesy of Prof.
W. Gekelman)}

V.K Decyk, "Simulation of Microscopic Processes in Plasma", Proc. 1987 International Conference on Plasma Physics, Kiev, USSR, April, 1987, ed. A. G. Sitenko [World Scientific, Singapore, 1987], vol II, p. 1075

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