Zero-dimensional time-dependent energy balance modelling of CTX spheromak plasmas

A zero-dimensional time-dependent energy balance model is used to explore the energy loss mechanisms of the CTX spheromak at Los Alamos. Parameters are varied in the terms of a coupled set of initial value equations representing electron, ion, neutral, and impurity particle balance, electron and ion temperature, and magnetic field decay. Comparison is then made to the time behavior of experimentally measured average densities, temperatures, and magnetic fields. By fitting the model to the experimental data the important terms of the equations are identified. The sensitivity of the fit to the values of parameters such as the impurity percentage, anomalous resistivity, and neutral particle source is discussed