Phase space evolution of pairs created in strong electric fields

Abstract

We study the process of energy conversion from overcritical electric field into electron-positron-photon plasma. We solve numerically Vlasov-Boltzmann equations for pairs and photons assuming the system to be homogeneous and anisotropic. All the 2-particle QED interactions between pairs and photons are described by collision terms. We evidence several epochs of this energy conversion, each of them associated to a specific physical process. Firstly pair creation occurs, secondly back reaction results in plasma oscillations. Thirdly photons are produced by electron-positron annihilation. Finally particle interactions lead to completely equilibrated thermal electron-positron-photon plasma.