https://doi.org/10.1051/epjap/2010073
Boundary conditions for the electron kinetic equation using expansion techniques
1
INP Greifswald, Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 2, 17489 Greifswald, Germany
2
University of Greifswald, Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 12, 17489 Greifswald, Germany
Corresponding author: markus.becker@inp-greifswald.de
Received:
18
January
2010
Revised:
6
April
2010
Accepted:
3
May
2010
Published online:
17
June
2010
The numerical solution of partial differential equations requires suitable boundary conditions. Based on a fundamental integral relation for Legendre polynomials, Marshak type boundary conditions are derived that can be applied if an expansion in Legendre polynomials is utilized to solve the spatially inhomogeneous kinetic equation of the electrons in gas discharge plasmas. In particular, it is now possible to relate directly the expansion coefficients of the phase space distribution with macroscopic quantities at the boundaries. That is, a well-defined influx or a reflection of electrons can easily be treated on the microscopic level.
© EDP Sciences, 2010
