Method for Estimating the Wavenumber of Standing Waves Using Three Langmuir Probes

Abstract

A new method for estimating the wavenumber of a standing wave system by using three Langmuir probes is proposed. Analytical formulae are derived from a simple model in which two waves of the same frequency and the same wavenumber propagate in opposite directions. The proposed method can estimate the wavenumber correctly even if the two waves have equal amplitude. © 2011 The Japan Society of Plasma Science and Nuclear Fusion Research.