An Introduction to the Atomic and Radiation Physics of Plasmas
Cambridge University Press, 2/22/2018
EAN 9781108419543, ISBN10: 1108419542
Hardcover, 312 pages, 25.4 x 18 x 1.8 cm
Language: English
Plasmas comprise more than 99% of the observable universe. They are important in many technologies and are key potential sources for fusion power. Atomic and radiation physics is critical for the diagnosis, observation and simulation of astrophysical and laboratory plasmas, and plasma physicists working in a range of areas from astrophysics, magnetic fusion, and inertial fusion utilise atomic and radiation physics to interpret measurements. This text develops the physics of emission, absorption and interaction of light in astrophysics and in laboratory plasmas from first principles using the physics of various fields of study including quantum mechanics, electricity and magnetism, and statistical physics. Linking undergraduate level atomic and radiation physics with the advanced material required for postgraduate study and research, this text adopts a highly pedagogical approach and includes numerous exercises within each chapter for students to reinforce their understanding of the key concepts.
Preface
1. Plasma and atomic physics
2. The propagation of light
3. Scattering
4. Radiation emission in plasmas
5. Radiation emission involving free electrons
6. Opacity
7. Discrete bound quantum states
hydrogen and hydrogen-like ions
8. Discrete bound states
many-electron atoms and ions
9. Discrete bound states
molecules
10. Radiative transitions between discrete quantum states
11. Collisions
12. Collisional-radiative models
13. High density plasmas
Appendix. Vectors, Maxwell's equations, the harmonic oscillator and a sum rule
References
Index.