Plasma waves

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Short Description of Topic

The Main Idea

Plasma has its own domain in physics. It is the study of charged fluids and particles that interacts with mostly self- consistent electric and magnetic fields. Despite the common misconception that there are only three fundamental states of matter, Plasma is the fourth after solids, liquid, and gas. Plasma is very different from the other states. It is comprised of charged ions and the dissociation of molecular bonds when present.The net charge of a Plasma is approximately zero. Therefore, it can be categorized as a electrically neutral medium There can be waves when it comes to Plasma. Waves occur when interconnected particles and fields spread or propagate in a periodically repeating fashion. Plasmas can support large variety of wave motions. Plasma waves can come in several modes. Phase and group velocity as well as polarization are very useful parameters when it comes to these waves.

A Mathematical Model

For example [math]\displaystyle{ {\frac{d\vec{p}}{dt}}_{system} = \vec{F}_{net} }[/math] where p is the momentum of the system and F is the net force from the surroundings.

A Computational Model

How do we visualize or predict using this topic. Consider embedding some vpython code here Teach hands-on with GlowScript

Connectedness

I love physics, and plasma is something that I knew nothing about. Before researching this subject, I honestly thought there were only three states of matter. I am an Aerospace Engineering major, and I want to specialize in space travel. I think using plasma waves would be a very beneficial way of propelling spacecraft.

History

Plasma was first discovered by Sir William Crookes in 1879 and was identified by Sir J.J. Thomson in 1897.

References

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plasma_(physics) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plasma_(physics) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waves_in_plasmas https://wiki.oulu.fi/display/SpaceWiki/Plasma+waves

Waves