Instabilities of a Cylindrical Electron-Hole Plasma in a Magnetic Field

Abstract

The stability of an electron-hole plasma carrying current in a parallel magnetic field is investigated. The theory employed is a generalization of the treatment Kadomtsev and Nedospasov applied to gas discharges. In its generalized form it is applicable to plasmas produced either by injection or by impact ionization and no restrictions are placed upon the magnitude of the magnetic field, provided the classical, linearized treatment is appropriate. The possibility of finite plasma densities at the surface of the crystal is included in an approximate manner. Instabilities are predicted, and the calculated values of the electric field, magnetic field, and lowest oscillation frequency which occur at the onset of instability are compared with available observations, including those of the "Oscillistor." Agreement is reasonably satisfactory.