Simulation of tokamak edge plasma including self-consistent electric fields

A complete system of transport equations with all the important perpendicul ar currents is derived for the simulation of tokamak edge plasma. These tra nsport equations are implemented in the B2.5 code and solved for the parame ters of the ASDEX Upgrade tokamak. The relative roles of different mechanis ms of transverse conductivity in the formation of the potential profile are studied. It is demonstrated that a reasonable potential distribution in th e tokamak edge plasma can be obtained without an ad hoc assumption of the e xistence of the anomalous perpendicular conductivity. The role of E x B dri fts in the redistribution of edge plasma and closing of the currents in the plasma is analysed.