Formation of field-reversed-configuration plasma with punctuated-betatron-orbit electrons.

We describe ab initio, self-consistent, 3D, fully electromagnetic numerical simulations of current drive and field-reversed-configuration plasma formation by odd-parity rotating magnetic fields (${\mathrm{RMF}}_{o}$). Magnetic-separatrix formation and field reversal are attained from an initial mirror configuration. A population of punctuated-betatron-orbit electrons, generated by the ${\mathrm{RMF}}_{o}$, carries the majority of the field-normal azimuthal electrical current responsible for field reversal. Appreciable current and plasma pressure exist outside the magnetic separatrix whose shape is modulated by the ${\mathrm{RMF}}_{o}$ phase. The predicted plasma density and electron energy distribution compare favorably with ${\mathrm{RMF}}_{o}$ experiments.