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The motion and the equilibrium position of cylindrical particles in a radio-frequency plasma have been interpreted by dipole and quadrupole interaction in two experimental situations. Particles levitating in steady state are aligned either horizontal or vertical in accordance with the theory. However, particles have been observed tilted w.r.t, the vertical when acquiring a horizontal velocity from sailing in the ion stream. Particles in defect of charge fall on the lower electrode, mainly vertically, and build complex 'woody' structures. Index Terms--Complex plasmas, plasmas, plasma sheaths, powders.

New data of the electronic properties of liquid helium and liquid neon are discussed with respect to their relevance for the initiation of electric breakdown. It is concluded that under ideal conditions the cathode plays a decisive role in the initiation of the breakdown process. It is speculated that a Townsend type breakdown mechanism is absent in the liquid phase of these elements. Index Terms--Liquid helium, breakdown, liquid neon, delocalized electrons, heat of vaporization, Townsend process, electron multiplication, radiation.