The electron distribution function has been calculated for simulated conditions of SF6-N2 gas mixtures under conditions typical of a N2 electrical discharge laser. The results indicate that the electron distribution function, transport quantities, and electronic excitation rates change only a few percent in the presence of SF6 provided E/N is unchanged. The enhancement in laser power output with the addition of SF6 is attributed to an increased operating value of E/N in the electrical discharge.

D. Sutton

Papers

Quasi-cw laser emission from the second positive band of nitrogen