Positive ion impediment across magnetic field in a partially magnetized plasma column

The radial characteristic of a partially magnetized plasma column created by a hot cathode filament is presented. It is found that in the absence of a magnetic field, plasma potential and density profiles follow the Boltzmann distribution. However when a magnetic field is introduced, a clear divergence from Boltzmannian is seen as the plasma density becomes more pronounced in the centre whereas a corresponding minima is observed in plasma potential. This radial potential profile impedes the radial diffusion of positive ions towards the grounded sidewalls. A phenomenological model based on short-circuiting effect is developed, which fairly explains this contrasting behaviour. (paper)