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The effect of supersonic gas flow on glow discharge characteristics in interelectrode space is studied. First, gas outflow through a Laval nozzle with a central body was simulated: gas particle density distributions, gas flow velocity, Mach number, and temperature were obtained. Next, these profiles were used for numerical calculations of the parameters of a transverse glow discharge within the framework of an extended fluid description of the plasma. As a result, it was found that the cathode zones can both shrink and stretch depending on the parameters of the supersonic gas flow. The latter creates an inhomogeneous gas density in the interelectrode region and thereby affects the value of E/N, which determines the electrical characteristics of the discharge. Numerical simulation results are confirmed by experimental data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mathematical models and simulations of plasma processes in scientific and technological projects proposed and, to a large extent, implemented by A.I. Morozov are reviewed. The plasmadynamic models are based on the magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) equations and their generalizations and deal with investigation of plasma flows in the channels–nozzles of the plasma thrusters. The calculations made an important contribution to the theory of an MHD analog of the de Laval nozzle and facilitated successful development and creation of a high-power quasi-stationary high-current plasma thruster. The plasmastatic models in terms of boundary-value problems with the Grad–Shafranov equation were realized in calculations of equilibrium magnetoplasma configurations in traps with current-carrying conductors embedded in plasma. Morozov also named these systems the Galatea traps. The results include calculations of the geometry, quantitative characteristics of the analyzed configurations, and a number of characteristic features in problems related to magnetic plasma confinement. General questions regarding mathematical models of interaction of reaction and diffusion processes are also discussed. The geometry of vacuum magnetic field forming magnetic surfaces for plasma confinement in traps is calculated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]