6 ECTS Credits — Semester 1 — Minor
Plasma physics is the study of plasma, a state of matter consisting of ionized particles (atoms or molecules that have lost or gained one or more electrons). Plasma is often referred to as the “fourth state of matter,” in addition to solids, liquids, and gases.
Plasma physics is a multidisciplinary field, encompassing elements of quantum mechanics, hydrodynamics, and electromagnetism. Research in plasma physics has applications in various areas, such as controlled fusion, space propulsion, plasma medicine, material processing, astrophysics.
Syllabus
- General introduction, space plasmas, magnetic confinement
- Wave-plasma interaction, laser ionization process, high intensity regime
- Cold plasmas, discharge physics, reactivity, confined plasmas
Suggested bibliography
- R.J. Goldston & P.H. Rutherford, Introduction to plasma physics, IOP.
- F.F. Chen, Introduction to plasma physics, Plenum.
- P.A. Davidson, An introduction to MHD, Cambridge University Press.
- J.M. Rax, Physique des plasmas, Dunod.
- S. Galtier, Introduction to modern magnetohydrodynamics, Cambridge University Press.
Prerequisites
- Electrodynamics of continuous media