What is kiel probe?

The Kiel probe is a diagnostic instrument that is used to measure the plasma potential of a plasma. It was invented by Friedrich Kiel in 1961 and is still in use today. The Kiel probe consists of a small, metallic, conical-shaped probe that is inserted into a plasma. The probe is connected to a high-impedance voltmeter, which measures the potential difference between the probe and a reference electrode.

The Kiel probe is used in plasma physics research to measure various plasma parameters such as electron and ion densities, electron temperature, and plasma potential. It is particularly useful in situations where traditional diagnostic techniques such as Langmuir probes are not effective.

One of the advantages of the Kiel probe is that it is not influenced by space charge effects, which is a major limitation of Langmuir probes. The Kiel probe is also capable of measuring plasma potentials that are too low for Langmuir probes to detect. Additionally, the Kiel probe is generally easier to use and interpret than other diagnostic tools.

Overall, the Kiel probe is an important research tool in plasma diagnostics and is widely used in various plasma studies and applications.