Integration of the Vlasov equation along characteristics in one and two dimensions

Methods of integration of the Vlasov equation along characteristics in one and two dimensions are discussed, in connection with the problem of the formation of a charge separation at a plasma edge. Application of these methods to the problem in which the Vlasov equation is integrated in a cylindrical geometry to calculate the electric field at a plasma edge, is presented. (C) 2003 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved