Abstract

We identify a new class of surface waves that arise at a plasma-liquid interface due to resonant coupling between discrete plasma pattern modes and a continuum of interfacial liquid surface wave modes. A wave mode is selected due to localized excitation by the plasma, and standing waves result when waves excited from different locations interact. These waves propagate with a slower phase velocity than traditional capillary waves, but exhibit the same damping behavior with respect to liquid viscosity. Surface tension does not appear to play a significant role. We propose a curvature-dependent Maxwell pressure mechanism to explain these nondispersive interfacial waves in the presence of plasma.