One-dimensional ordinary–slow extraordinary–Bernstein mode conversion in the electron cyclotron range of frequencies

The ordinary–slow extraordinary–Bernstein (O-SX-B) mode conversion in the electron cyclotron range of frequencies (ECRF) is revisited in slab geometry. The analytical formula of the O-SX conversion efficiency by Mjølhus is upgraded to include the magnetic field gradient, and the analytical expression of the SX-B conversion efficiency by Ram and Schultz is generalized for the case of oblique injection. Therefore, the conversion efficiency and optimal parallel refractive index for the whole O-SX-B conversion are obtained analytically and a shift of optimal parallel refractive index due to SX-FX loss is found. Full wave calculations are also presented to be compared with the analytical results. (paper)