The energy of perturbations for Vlasov plasmas*3a)

The energy content of electrostatic perturbations about homogeneous equilibria is discussed. The calculation leading to the well-known dielectric (or as it is sometimes called, the wave) energy is revisited and interpreted in light of Vlasov theory. It is argued that this quantity is deficient because resonant particles are not correctly handled. A linear integral transform is presented that solves the linear Vlasov-Poisson equation. This solution, together with the Kruskal-Oberman energy [Phys. Fluids 1, 275 ( 1958)], is used to obtain an energy expression in terms of the electric field [Phys. Fluids B 4, 3038 (1992)]. It is described how the integral transform amounts to a change to normal coordinates in an infinite-dimensional Hamiltonian system.