End-loss ion analysis using an end-loss energy component analyzer in the tandem mirror

In open systems, velocity distribution functions of end-loss ions provide information not only about ion axial confinement but also about the noticeable structure which appears an the ion distribution in loss regions. An end-Ioss energy component analyzer (ELECA) has been developed to measure the velocity-distribution functions of the end-loss ions in the tandem mirror GAMMA 10. The distribution functions and the physical quantities related to the end-loss ions are derived as functions of the output currents of the ELECA. The ion temperature in the loss region is estimated on the assumption that the distribution function is Maxwellian in consideration of the loss region characterized Fly the magnetic field strength and the electrostatic potentials in the tandem mirror.