Plasma Physics
An Introduction to the Theory of Astrophysical, Geophysical and Laboratory Plasmas

This book provides the ideal introduction to this complex and fascinating field of research, balancing the theoretical and practical and preparing the student for further study.

Peter Andrew Sturrock (Edited by)

9780521448109, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 2 June 1994

348 pages, 74 b/w illus. 1 table
24.6 x 18.9 x 1.8 cm, 0.62 kg

'Plasma Physics can be recommended as the basis of a solid graduate course in physics, applied physics or astrophysics … Unlike most introductory texts, this one places a strong emphasis on space plasma physics and is the stronger for it.' The Times Higher Education Supplement

Plasma Physics presents an authoritative and wide-ranging pedagogic study of the 'fourth' state of matter. The constituents of the plasma state are influenced by electric and magnetic fields, and in turn also produce electric and magnetic fields. This fact leads to a rich array of properties of the plasma state. A basic knowledge of mathematics and physics is preferable to appreciate fully this text. The author uses examples throughout, many taken from astrophysical phenomena, to explain concepts. In addition, problem sets at the end of each chapter will serve to reinforce key points.

1. Introduction
2. Basic concepts
3. Orbit theory - uniform fields
4. Adiabatic invariants
5. Orbit theory
6. Electromagnetic waves in a cold electron plasma
7. Electromagnetic waves in an electron-ion plasma
8. Two-stream instability
9. Electrostatic oscillations in a plasma of non-zero temperature
10. Collision theory
11. MHD equations
12. Magnetohydrodynamics
13. Force-free magnetic configurations
14. Waves in MHD systems
15. Magnetohydrodynamic stability
16. Variational principle for MHD systems
17. Resistive instabilities
18. Stochastic processes
19. Interaction of particles and waves.

Subject Areas: Plasma physics [PHFP]