The problem of calculating the ion drag force in complex plasmas is considered. It is shown that the standard theory of Coulomb scattering usually fails for the ion-dust elastic collisions. A simple approach to extend this theory is proposed. This leads to a considerable enhancement in the ion-dust elastic scattering cross section and, hence, increases the ion drag force in comparison with the previous analytical results. Analysis shows that the ion drag usually exceeds the electrostatic force in the limit of weak electric field. We suggest that this is the cause of the central “void” observed in microgravity complex plasma experiments.

• Received 23 November 2001

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevE.66.046414