Observation of the effects of dust particles on plasma fluctuation spectra.

Charged dust particles are theoretically expected to modify the amplitude and spectrum of plasma fluctuations, and this can eventually provide novel diagnostic tools. Direct experimental evidence of the effects of dust particles on the fluctuations of a low collisionality plasma is reported, in agreement with the expectations of kinetic theory.

Resonant scattering of ions on charged dust particles.

Resonant scattering ("scattering through waves") of ions on dust particles in plasmas is considered in the framework of the kinetic theory which consistently takes into account ion-dust collisions and dust charge fluctuations. Resonance with low frequency dusty plasma modes can enhance the ion-dust scattering cross section and the ion drag force on dust particles.