Electron diffusion in hydrogen at high electric fields and low gas pressures: II

The radial distribution and amplification of a stream of electrons after drifting through a gas in a uniform electric field has been theoretically analysed. The solution, which is an extension of that given in a previous paper applies to a discharge tube of finite dimensions and takes into account the production of secondary electrons owing to bombardment of the cathode by both non-resonance photons and positive ions. Experimental measurements of the radial distribution and amplification of electron current in hydrogen have been analysed to give values for the ratio of the diffusion coefficient to the mobility coefficient for 15 < E/p 0 < 350 v cm -1 torr -1 .