| Abstract: | A model is proposed for the formation of the electron energy distribution in a hollow cathode discharge. On the basis of this model, an integral equation has been derived to calculate the electron distribution function over the entire cathode cavity volume. The equation holds true for both the isotropic distribution, and the case when the local distribution function is anisotropic. Solutions of the kinetic equation obtained are presented, for electron energies over 2–3 eV and up to the cathode fall potential. It is shown that the electron energy distribution function in this interval determines the optical characteristics of the hollow cathode discharge. A comparison is given of the calculated and measured radiation powers for the cases of the hollow cathode discharge in xenon and carbon dioxide. The discrepancy between the theoretical and experimental data does not exceed 20%. |
