We introduce a new simulation technique which is based on the distribution of the times of collision between plasma particles and a radiating atom. This procedure generates a continuous flow of particles of random velocities and directions through a sphere of interaction around the radiator. It leads to correct statistics while traditional procedures with their reinjection prescriptions are shown to change the statistics. The new technique is applied to a detailed study of Ly-α. The influence of the shielding parameter and the temperature-density dependence are investigated. An asymptotic exponential falloff of the ion dipole autocorrelation function is exhibited, verifying analytic indications. The first joint ion-electron simulation of profiles is reported. They agree with the experimental profiles of Grützmacher and Wende.

• Received 4 September 1987

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.37.1488