An experimental check of the electron distribution function in a current carrying plasma

The local current density obtained by means of Thomson scattering measurements (with a component of the scattering vector k along the current direction) has been compared with the local current density obtained by means of magnetic field measurements made using a magnetic probe inserted in the plasma. A better agreement has been found between the two kinds of measurements when the scattered signals have been treated on the assumption of the Spitzer-Haerm electron distribution function than on the assumption of the displaced Maxwellian one for the current carrying plasma. (Auth.)