The power gain factor Q of an ideal magneto-electrostatic fusion reactor

The basic particle and energy balance equations for the reactor are considered on the assumption of only classical interactions, and a simplified solution for them is derived. The results are shown in the form of semi-empirical expressions giving the maximum attainable values of Q and n τ as functions of the main reactor parameters. It is found that the main factor limiting Q is electron diffusion across the magnetic field. If there are no anomalous processes a value of Q ≈5–10 can be attained, provided that the characteristic size of the plasma is a few metres, the magnetic field in the gaps is about 100 kG and the plugging voltage is between 200 and 300 kV.