Kinetic Solitary Electrostatic Structures in Collisionless Plasma: Phase-Space Holes

Abstract

The physics of isolated plasma potential structures sustained by a deficit of phase-space density on trapped orbits, commonly known as electron or ion holes, is reviewed. The principles of their equilibria are explained and illustrated, and contrasted with solitons. A literature review mostly prior to 2016 highlights the key historical developments of the field. Progress since, especially in hole acceleration, stability, and multi-dimensional effects, is summarized in more detail.