| Abstract: | A model of the breakdown in high pressure gases is presented taking into consideration the finite voltage rise time at the discharge electrodes and a finite initial charge carrier density in the gap. Several types of breakdown could be distinguished important for several applications. Thus, the range of existence of high pressure laser discharges at a given preionization density and circuit parameters can be calculated. Moreover, the change in the breakdown characteristics of high pressure gases at high temperatures is explained. This behaviour seems to be important for understanding the physical processes in circuit breaker chambers. |
