Temperature Equilibration due to Charge State Fluctuations in Dense Plasmas

The charge states of ions in dense plasmas fluctuate due to collisional ionization and recombination. Here, we show how, by modifying the ion interaction potential, these fluctuations can mediate energy exchange between plasma electrons ions. Moreover, develop a theory for this novel electron-ion transfer mechanism. Calculations using random walk approach suggest that rate from state could be comparable direct collisions. This mechanism is, however, predicted exhibit complex dependence on temperature plasma, which contribute our understanding significant variation experimental measurements equilibration times.