Plasma Physics: An Introduction to Laboratory, Space, and Fusion Plasmas (Graduate Texts in Physics)

Book Details

• Author: Alexander Piel

• Brand: Springer

• Edition: Softcover reprint of the original 2nd ed. 2017

• Binding: Paperback

• ISBN: 9783319875538

• Pages: 463

• Cover: Paperback

• Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.1 x 1.4 inches

• Language: English

• Release Date: 18-05-2018

About The Book

"Plasma Physics: An Introduction" (2nd Edition) by Alexander Piel offers a thorough introduction to the fundamental processes in plasmas, covering everything from cold gas-discharge plasmas to hot fusion plasmas. This comprehensive textbook explores key concepts such as magnetic confinement fusion, laser fusion, plasma waves, and instabilities, making it an invaluable resource for students and researchers in plasma physics and related disciplines.

The book delves into various methods for plasma description, including magnetohydrodynamics, kinetic theory, and particle simulation, providing clear explanations of these complex topics. It also emphasizes plasma diagnostics, with practical examples drawn from Langmuir probe methods, laser interferometry, ionospheric sounding, and more.

The second edition has been substantially revised to include expanded chapters on plasma diagnostics, dusty plasmas, and plasma discharges. New topics, such as plasma crystals and Yukawa balls, as well as advanced concepts like the electrical asymmetry effect in capacitive RF discharges, are now covered in detail.

This book is ideal for students in plasma physics and researchers from space science, astrophysics, material science, applied physics, and electrical engineering, offering a clear, concise, and accessible approach to this fascinating field. Its pedagogical approach includes illustrative figures, summaries, and problem sets with solutions, making it perfect for both academic courses and independent study.