Finite element solution of Laplace’s equation for ion-atom chambers

The finite element method is used to solve Laplace’s equation for ion-atom chambers. We first consider a simplified model chamber for which an analytical solution can be obtained; the model chamber serves as a test case to verify the accuracy and convergence of the finite element method. We apply th...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:American journal of physics 2009-01, Vol.77 (1), p.81-86
Main Authors: Golde, Jacob, Shertzer, Janine, Oxley, Paul
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Atoms & subatomic particles
Electric fields
Finite element analysis
Laplace transforms
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Summary:The finite element method is used to solve Laplace’s equation for ion-atom chambers. We first consider a simplified model chamber for which an analytical solution can be obtained; the model chamber serves as a test case to verify the accuracy and convergence of the finite element method. We apply the finite element method to an experimental chamber consisting of five equipotential rings in a grounded cylindrical shell. We determine the strength and homogeneity of the electric field in the region of the chamber where the atoms undergo laser excitation into a Rydberg state.
ISSN:0002-9505
1943-2909
DOI:10.1119/1.3000255