Extreme Physics
Properties and Behavior of Matter at Extreme Conditions

Emphasising computational modeling, this introduction to the physics on matter at extreme conditions is invaluable for researchers and graduate students.

Jeff Colvin (Author), Jon Larsen (Author)

9781107019676, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 7 November 2013

416 pages, 95 b/w illus. 8 tables 135 exercises
24.9 x 17.8 x 2.5 cm, 0.98 kg

'The text is well-written and … convey[s] the content clearly, as does the mathematically rigorous treatment of physical phenomena. This book hence offers a comprehensive (and modern) introduction into the basic physics of matter at extreme conditions and into the mathematical techniques involved in numerical simulations of its properties and behaviour with a clear focus on computational modeling of the relevant phenomena.' Manuel Vogel, Contemporary Physics

Most matter in the Universe, from the deep interior of planets to the core of stars, is at high temperature or high pressure compared to the matter of our ordinary experience. This book offers a comprehensive introduction to the basic physical theory on matter at such extreme conditions and the mathematical modeling techniques involved in numerical simulations of its properties and behavior. Focusing on computational modeling, the book discusses topics such as the basic properties of dense plasmas; ionization physics; the physical mechanisms by which laser light is absorbed in matter; radiation transport in matter; the basics of hydrodynamics and shock-wave formation and propagation; and numerical simulation of radiation-hydrodynamics phenomenology. End-of-chapter exercises allow the reader to test their understanding of the material and introduce additional physics, making this an invaluable resource for researchers and graduate students in this broad and interdisciplinary area of physics.

Acknowledgements
1. Extreme environments: what, where, how
2. Properties of dense and classical plasmas
3. Laser energy absorption in matter
4. Hydrodynamic motion
5. Shocks
6. Equation of state
7. Ionization
8. Thermal energy transport
9. Radiation energy transport
10. Magnetohydrodynamics
11. Considerations for constructing radiation-hydrodynamics computer codes
12. Numerical simulations
Appendix: units and constants, glossary of symbols
References
Bibliography
Index.

Subject Areas: Technology, engineering, agriculture [T], Physics [PH], Mathematics & science [P]