Plasma physics is an important subject for a large number of research areas, including space physics, solar physics, astrophysics, controlled fusion research, high-power laser physics, plasma processing, and many areas of experimental physics. The primary goal of this course is for the students to learn the basic principles and main equations of plasma physics, at an introductory level, with emphasis on topics of broad applicability.
A plasma may be generally defined as any statistical collection of mobile charged particles. Thus statistical physics and electrodynamics provide the fundamental basis for the physics of plasmas. An undergraduate course in classical electrodynamics (such as PHYS 302) is the only prerequisite for the course; relevant aspects of statistical physics and mechanics are reviewed or introduced as needed.
The required text for the course is Plasma Dynamics by R. O. Dendy. This book is chosen because it contains a nice balance between mathematical formulations and physical principles, it is clearly written, and it uses an appealing logical organization of the subject which provides an excellent framework for a first course in plasma physics. The well-known text Introduction to Plasma Physics and Controlled Fusion by F. F. Chen is a recommended text for the course, and in many ways it complements and reinforces material covered in Dendy's book.
The course begins with a description of various types of plasmas and a discussion of some basic plasma parameters, such as the Debye length and the plasma frequency. Following a discussion of charged particle motion in electromagnetic fields, progressively more detailed models of plasmas are presented, starting with a dielectric description of cold plasma and moving on to the magnetohydrodynamic and kinetic descriptions. Additional topics may be added as time allows. Students are required to give a presentation to the class on a plasma physics topic related to the course.
Course Prerequisite: PHYS 302 Classical Electrodynamics, or equivalent
Credit: 3 semester hours
Meeting Time: Tuesday/Thursday, 10:50am-12:05pm
Classroom: Herman Brown Hall 22 (in the basement)
Format: A lecture course with problem sets, a midterm exam and a final exam.
Required:
Plasma Dynamics, R. O. Dendy, Clarendon Press, Oxford, 1990.
Recommended: Introduction to Plasma Physics and Controlled Fusion, second edition, F. F. Chen, Plenum Press, 1984.
| Grading Weights: | Homework | 40% |
|---|---|---|
| Midterm Exam | 20% | |
| Class Presentation | 10% | |
| Final Exam | 30% |
Homework Policy: Students are encouraged to discuss the problems with their classmates and with the instructor, but they must write up their homework solutions independently.
Late Policy: The grade for late homework will be multiplied by a decaying exponential with a time constant of five days. Late homework must be delivered directly to the grader (Liheng Zheng), either in person or by placing the homework under his office door (Herman Brown 329), with the date and time of delivery written on the homework.
Class Presentation: A presentation on some aspect of plasma physics related to PHYS 480. To be given near the end of the semester, on a topic chosen by the student and approved by the instructor.
Any student with a disability requiring accomodations in this course is encouraged to contact the instructor after class or during office hours. Additionally, students will also need to contact Disability Support Services in the Allen Center.