Eigenmode structure in bounded inhomogeneous plasma slab near ion cyclotron frequency

The wave field distribution in a parallel-plate waveguide filled with plasma has been investigated near the ion cyclotron frequency by numerical integration of the full cold plasma equations taking electron inertia into account. The static magnetic field is parallel to the waveguide axis and its intensity varies across the waveguide cross-section. The density profile is taken to be parabolic. Contrary to the predictions of the theory neglecting electron inertia, discrete eigenmodes are found regardless of the presence of the so-called ''perpendicular resonance layer'' within the plasma. In contrast to homogeneous plasmas, the short-wavelength electrostatic branch of the slow wave solutions is important in inhomogeneous plasmas and the eigenmode structure of the two cases are considerably different from each other