Particle simulation studies of the lower hybrid drift instability

The nonlinear phase of the lower hybrid drift instability in the high drift velocity regime (relative electron-ion drift velocity greater than ion thermal speed) has been investigated using particle simulation in a two-dimensional sheath geometry. The anomalous resistivity is measured at various times and is shown to be in good agreement with quasi-linear theory during both the linear and nonlinear phase of the instability. Saturation is due to ion trapping.