Two-dimensional hydrodynamic models of laser-produced plasmas

Analytic modelling of laser-produced plasmas has generally been restricted to one-dimensional flow. Multi-dimensional hydrodynamic approximations are available, and are explored. Two configurations are examined. The explosive mode in which the entire body of material is uniformly heated is treated by the self-similar form, and the aspect ratio of the resulting expansion is determined. Ablative flows can be approximated by the hybrid model, and the self-regulating flow from a solid target can be calculated in this way. (author)