A model for multi-wave beam-plasma interaction

A system that describes the interaction of an electron beam, plasma waves, and electromagnetic waves in a cold plasma is presented and studied. A multi- wave model is developed that allows for efficient computational and analytical study. The model is based on the slow amplitude and phase change approxima- tions. Using a Lagrangian approach, the continuous system of electron beam, background plasma, and waves is reduced to a finite degree-of-freedom system. This model, describes an efficient energy transfer mechanism between electro- magnetic waves and the plasma wave, via the particles trapped in the plasma wave. It is suggested that this energy transfer be used in plasma-based accel- erators to further increase the energy of the accelerated particles. Numerical and analytical studies of this mechanism are performed and an experimental test is proposed.