Plasma Physics

Introduction

In this course, students will learn about plasmas, the fourth state of matter. The plasma state dominates the visible universe, and is of increasing economic importance. Plasmas behave in lots of interesting and sometimes unexpected ways.

The course is intended only as a first plasma physics course, but includes critical concepts needed for a foundation for further study. A solid undergraduate background in classical physics, electromagnetic theory including Maxwell's equations, and mathematical familiarity with partial differential equations and complex analysis are prerequisites.

This is a calculus-based introductory course on plasma physics with maximum emphasis on applying the acquired knowledge to solving problems. In this course, topics like What is Plasma, Applications of plasma physics, Single-particle motion in uniform and nonuniform E and B fields, Fluid description of plasma, Wave propagation in a magnetic field, electron plasma waves and ion-acoustic waves, Low temperature plasmas and their applications, Magnetic fusion plasmas, Laser produced plasmas, inertial confinement fusion, X-ray lasers and Particle accelerators will be covered.

Learning Outcomes

After completing this course, students should be able:

To describe, in words, the ways in which various concepts in plasma physics come into play in particular situations.
To develop skills of conceptual understanding, mathematical formulation and interpretation of the fundamental principles of plasma physics
To study more advanced courses in plasma physics

Textbooks

Introduction to plasma Physics and Controlled Fusion, F. F. Chen, Springer, (2016).
Fundamentals of Plasma Physics, J. A. Bittencourt, Springer, (2004).

Assessment Criteria

Sessional: 20 marks (Assignments 20 marks)

Mid Term exam: 30 marks

Final exam: 50 marks

Day and time of classes

BS-VII (Regular)

Monday (10:00 AM to 11:00 AM)

Tuesday (10:00 AM to 11:00 AM)

Thursday (10:00 AM to 11:00 AM)

BS-VII (Self Support)

Monday (03:00 PM to 04:00 PM)

Tuesday (03:00 PM to 04:00 PM)