O-X mode conversion in a non-symmetric torus at electron cyclotron frequencies

Earlier work on linear wave propagation over a symmetric background state , Phys. Plasmas 11, 866 (2004) is simplified and extended to non-symmetric equilibria. With the exception of one special case, which reduces to the case of a perpendicularly stratified medium, it is shown that mode conversion in symmetric or non-symmetric equilibria satisfies the same set of equations. An examination of the coupling of the geometrical ray optics solution to the mode conversion system provides a relatively simple and physical characterization of the incoming wave structure necessary to achieve effective mode conversion. Part of the work was done while visiting the Max=Planck-Insititute-for Plasmaphysics, Greifswald , Germany. its support is gratefully acknowledged.