On the contraction of an arc discharge in gaseous mixtures

摘要

The influence of properties of a gaseous medium on the process of contraction (self-constriction) of an arc discharge in the atmosphere of the mixtures of noble gases is considered. The calculations are carried out, and it is shown that the degree of constriction of an arc discharge is determined by both the thermal characteristics of the gaseous medium and the characteristics of electron-atom collisions. It is revealed that the Ramsauer effect has an influence on a character of the contraction of an arc. Also, it is shown the possibility to neutralize this influence in gaseous mixtures.