Abstract
We present a theory for finite-amplitude relativistic electron holes, which are localized Bernstein–Greene–Kruskal (BGK) solutions characterized by a trapped population of electrons moving with the electron hole. We find that the relativistic effects can drastically modify the electron hole, which becomes wider and is associated with a larger electrostatic potential, accelerating the electrons to highly relativistic energies. The theory has relevance for understanding the properties of strong localized electric fields in high-energy laser-plasma experiments and in supernovae remnants, where relativistic electron holes are a natural product of streaming instabilities.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 237–242 |
Number of pages | 6 |
Journal | Physics Letters A |
Volume | 338 |
Issue number | 1-4 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 6 Jun 2005 |
Keywords
- relativistic
- electron holes