27 March 2025

Plasma Physics

Plasma Physics is the branch of physics that studies plasmas, which are ionized gases consisting of free-moving charged particles, including ions and electrons. Plasmas are often referred to as the fourth state of matter, alongside solid, liquid, and gas. This state occurs when sufficient energy is provided to a gas to strip electrons from atoms, resulting in a collection of charged particles. Plasma physics involves understanding the dynamics, behaviors, and interactions of these charged particles in various environments, such as in stars (including the sun), fusion reactors, and space phenomena like solar wind and auroras. Research in plasma physics has applications in various fields, including astrophysics, nuclear fusion energy, and plasma technology used in displays and material processing.