Application of a Compact Ion Trap to Fundamental Beam-Dynamics Studies

Abstract

A novel experimental approach has been established at Hiroshima University to explore diverse fundamental issues in accelerator physics. The compact apparatus developed in Hiroshima is called "S-POD" (Simulator of Particle Orbit Dynamics) that enables us to reproduce the complex collective behavior of an intense hadron beam in a local tabletop environment. The idea is based on the fact that the collective beam motion in a modern alternating-gradient accelerator is approximately equivalent to the motion of a non-neutral plasma confined in a linear Paul trap. A brief summary is given of some recent experimental results obtained with S-POD. Particular attention is paid to the resonant beam instability originating from the periodic nature of the electromagnetic potential in a storage ring. Several common misconceptions about collective resonances are clarified through typical S-POD data and theoretical predictions.