Development dynamics of the 2-D vortex structures in high-current plasma lens

Summary form only given. In this paper we are consider plasma lens (PL) hydrodynamic instability in the nonlinear approximation. It is shown that ion-electron instability in the high-current PL caused by the radial gradient of the magnetic field axial component can lead to the creation of electron vortices. The nonlinear differential equation for the electrical potential has been obtained. One described a drift motion of the electrons in oscillating electrical fields of the high-current PL. Questions of appearance and dynamics of vortex structures are discussed on the basis of computer models. It is shown that some vortices are created under azimuthal perturbation of the equilibrium potential. Vortex merger processes led to a single stable large vortex which moves azimuthally. Estimations for drift velocity, spin rate, maximum potential of vortex have been made.