The proposed program will test theoretical predictions of the acceleration of electrons by Alfven waves by conducting a series of laboratory experiments using the Large Plasma Device (LAPD) at UCLA. It is well known that accelerated electrons are found in the earth's auroras, but the mechanism by which the particles are accelerated has remained unclear. On leading candidate for the acceleration mechanism is inertial Alfven waves. This study will use a well controlled set of laboratory experiments to determine whether or not the Alfven wave acceleration mechanism is viable.
