Nonlinear space-charge waves on an intense relativistic electron beam

The propagation characteristics of the large-amplitude space-charge waves on a modulated intense relativistic electron beam are calculated. The beam is assumed to propagate inside a straight drift tube, and is guided by a strong axial magnetic field. Only the analytical and simulation results of this relatively simple system are given. It is shown that the slow space-charge waves may cease to propagate if the modulating voltage is sufficiently high, whereas the fast waves are relatively unaffected by the nonlinearity. The limiting electron velocity inferred from the analytical theory is in excellent agreement with particle simulation. The implications are discussed.<
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