Dispersion in a relativistic degenerate electron gas

Details Dispersion in a relativistic degenerate electron gas Dispersion in a relativistic degenerate electron gas

2006-03-27

arxiv.org/abs/physics/0603227v1

Physics

Plasma Physics

17 pages, 9 figures. Submitted to Physical Review E

Scientific paper

10.1017/S0022377806004806

Relativistic effects on dispersion in a degenerate electron gas are discussed by comparing known response functions derived relativistically (by Jancovici) and nonrelativistically (by Lindhard). The main distinguishing feature is one-photon pair creation, which leads to logarithmic singularities in the response functions. Dispersion curves for longitudinal waves have a similar tongue-like appearance in the relativistic and nonrelativistic case, with the main relativistic effects being on the Fermi speed and the cutoff frequency. For transverse waves the nonrelativistic treatment has a nonphysical feature near the cutoff frequency for large Fermi momenta, and this is attributed to an incorrect treatment of the electron spin. We find (with two important provisos) that one-photon pair creation is allowed in superdense plasmas, implying relatively strong coupling between transverse waves and pair creation.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Dispersion in a relativistic degenerate electron gas does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with Dispersion in a relativistic degenerate electron gas, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Dispersion in a relativistic degenerate electron gas will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-413750