Plasma Physics: An Introduction

Encompasses the Lectured Works of a Renowned Expert in the Field

Plasma Physics: An Introduction is based on a series of university course lectures by a leading name in the field, and thoroughly covers the physics of the fourth state of matter. This book looks at non-relativistic, fully ionized, nondegenerate, quasi-neutral, and weakly coupled plasma. Intended for the student market, the text provides a concise and cohesive introduction to plasma physics theory, and offers a solid foundation for students wishing to take higher level courses in plasma physics.

This work contains over 80 exercises―carefully selected for their pedagogical value―with fully worked out solutions available in a separate solutions manual for professors. The author provides an in-depth discussion of the various fluid theories typically used in plasma physics. The material presents a number of applications, and works through specific topics including basic plasma parameters, the theory of charged particle motion in inhomogeneous electromagnetic fields, plasma fluid theory, electromagnetic waves in cold plasmas, electromagnetic wave propagation through inhomogeneous plasmas, magnetohydrodynamical fluid theory, and kinetic theory.

• Discusses fluid theory illustrated by the investigation of Langmuir sheaths
• Explores charged particle motion illustrated by the investigation of charged particle trapping in the earth’s magnetosphere
• Examines the WKB theory illustrated by the investigation of radio wave propagation in the earth’s ionosphere
• Studies the MHD theory illustrated by the investigation of solar wind, dynamo theory, magnetic reconnection, and MHD shocks

Plasma Physics: An Introduction addresses applied areas and advanced topics in the study of plasma physics, and specifically demonstrates the behavior of ionized gas.