EVOLUTION OF THE GAS-PUFF Z-PINCH COLUMN

The evolution of a neon implosion of low energy discharge (4 kJ, 40 kV , 150 kA, 1.1 mu s) was studied using X-ray, schlieren, and high speed electrooptical visible gated quadro camera diagnostics. The geometry, an helical structure of pinched column, two steps of pinching, and X- ray emission have been studied. The hypothesis of an axial component o f magnetic field generation, the helical shape of the magnetic and ele ctric field lines, and the release of magnetic energy during the secon d pinching of the column are discussed.