Dispersion in an intrinsically relativistic, one-dimensional, strongly magnetized pair plasma

The properties of a relativistic plasma dispersion function (RPDF) for an i ntrinsically extremely relativist, strongly magnetized, one-dimensional, el ectron-position plasma are discussed in detail. For a plasma with a mean Lo rentz factor [gamma] much greater than 1 in its rest frame, the RPDF has a large peak > [gamma] at a phase speed a fractrion of order 1/[gamma] below the speed of light, and the asymptotic value (infinite phase speed) is [gam ma(-3)] similar to 1/[gamma]. These features are not particularly sensitive to the choice of distribution function, The RPDF is used to discuss the pr operties of waves in such plasmas. Particular points discussed are the impl ications of the RPDF for the maximum frequency for parallel Langmuir waves: and for the reconnection between the Langmuir mode and the Alfven mode.