Wave trapping and <i>E</i> × <i>B</i> staircases

A model of E × B staircases is proposed based on a wave kinetic equation coupled to poloidal momentum equation. staircase pattern idealized as periodic radial structure zonal shear layers that bound regions propagating packets, viewed avalanches. Wave packets are trapped in flow due refraction. In this model, an motif emerges the interaction between (avalanches) and waves presence instability drive. Amplitude, shape, spatial period predicted functions background fluctuation spectrum growth rate drift waves. The velocity profile found peak near its maxima flatten minima. optimum configuration for formation rate, is, maximum at zero number. mean responsible preferential propagation speed It not mandatory condition existence solutions, but has impact their period.