Solution of the Boltzmann equation for electrons in the discharges in metal vapour-helium mixtures

The Boltzmann equation was applied to the electron gas in the positive column in a helium-metal vapour mixture discharge. The problem was solved both numerically and approximately taking into account elastic and inelastic collisions of electrons with helium and metal atoms as well as mutual impacts of electrons. Separately the influence of Zn, Cd and Hg atoms on the mean kinetic energy, the mobility (drift velocity) and the diffusion of the electrons was investigated. Approximative relations for those quantities were found and a physical interpretation of their behaviour is given.