Effect of Magnetic Field on Electron Density Growth during Laser-Induced Gas Breakdown

The avalanche growth rate of C${\mathrm{O}}_2$-laser—induced gas breakdown in a magnetic field has been studied by measuring the time elapsed between the initiation of the laser pulse and the onset of observable breakdown effects such as a sharp decrease of laser transmission through the gas. The main features of the observed magnetic field dependence of this time difference can be explained in terms of the inhibition of electron diffusion from the laser focal region.