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Ambrogio Fasoli,
Paolo Ricci,
Alan Howling,
Christian Theiler,
Duccio Testa,
Ivo Furno,
and
Jean-Philippe Hogge
Plasma, the fourth state of matter, is by far the most abundant form of known matter in the universe. Its behavior is very different from the other states of matter we are usually familiar with. To understand it, a rigorous formalism is required. This is essential not only to explain important astrophysical phenomena, but also to optimize many industrial and medical applications and for achieving fusion energy on Earth.
Read more
Plasma, the fourth state of matter, is by far the most abundant form of known matter in the universe. Its behavior is very different from the other states of matter we are usually familiar with. To understand it, a rigorous formalism is required. This is essential not only to explain important astrophysical phenomena, but also to optimize many industrial and medical applications and for achieving fusion energy on Earth.
Read more
Plasma, the fourth state of matter, is by far the most abundant form of known matter in the universe. Its behavior is very different from the other states of matter we are usually familiar with. To understand it, a rigorous formalism is required. This is essential not only to explain important astrophysical phenomena, but also to optimize many industrial and medical applications and for achieving fusion energy on Earth.
This physics course, taught by world-renowned experts of the field, gives you the opportunity to acquire a basic knowledge of plasma physics. A rigorous introduction to the plasma state will be followed by a description of the models, from single particle, to kinetic and fluid, which can be applied to study its dynamics. You will learn about the waves that can exist in a plasma and how to mathematically describe them, how a plasma can be controlled by magnetic fields, and how its complex and fascinating behavior is simulated using today’s most powerful supercomputers.
This course is the first of two courses introducing plasma physics and its applications. After completing this course, you will have the prerequisites to enjoy Plasma Physics: Applications, which deals with plasma applications in astrophysics, industry, medicine, nuclear fusion and laser-plasma interaction.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/55zze2/plasma
What's inside
Learning objectives
- Basic knowledge of plasma physics and the different models used to describe plasmas
- An understanding of how to numerically simulate complex plasma dynamics
- Basic knowledge of matlab programming through introduction videos and exercises
- Basic knowledge of plasma physics and the different models used to describe plasmas
- An understanding of how to numerically simulate complex plasma dynamics
- Basic knowledge of matlab programming through introduction videos and exercises
Syllabus
Week 1: Description of the plasma state
Week 2: Kinetic description of plasmas
Week 3: Fluid description of plasmas
Week 4: Fluid description of plasmas II
Read more
Syllabus
Week 1: Description of the plasma state
Week 2: Kinetic description of plasmas
Week 3: Fluid description of plasmas
Week 4: Fluid description of plasmas II
Read more
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Examines the fourth state of matter, which is essential for understanding astrophysical phenomena, industrial and medical applications, and nuclear fusion energy
Provides an opportunity to acquire basic knowledge of plasma physics in a rigorous and comprehensive manner
Teaches numerical simulation techniques for complex plasma dynamics, a valuable tool in research and industry
Offers insights into plasma control through magnetic fields, expanding learners' capabilities in plasma manipulation
Provides basic MATLAB programming knowledge, enhancing learners' ability to work with plasma-related data
Requires familiarity with physics and mathematics concepts, making it suitable for those with a background in these disciplines
Save this course
Save Plasma Physics: Introduction to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Plasma Physics: Introduction with these
activities:
Review Fluid Dynamics
Show steps
Review some basic fluid dynamics to refresh your understanding of hydrodynamic systems.
Browse courses on
Fluid Dynamics
Show steps
-
Revisit the governing equations for conservation of mass, momentum, and energy.
-
Review the behavior of fluids under different flow conditions.
-
Apply basic fluid dynamics concepts to solve simple problems.
Explore MATLAB Programming
Show steps
Engage in MATLAB tutorials to enhance your programming proficiency for plasma simulations and calculations.
Browse courses on
MATLAB Programming
Show steps
-
Enroll in a beginner-friendly MATLAB tutorial course.
-
Follow along with the tutorials and complete the exercises.
-
Explore MATLAB documentation and resources for further learning.
Simulate Plasma Dynamics
Show steps
Build your understanding of plasma dynamics by creating a simulation using techniques covered in the course.
Show steps
-
Choose a specific plasma phenomenon or behavior to simulate.
-
Identify the relevant physical processes and mathematical models.
-
Develop a computational model and implement it in a programming language (e.g., MATLAB, Python).
-
Run the simulation and analyze the results.
-
Compare your simulation results with experimental data or theoretical predictions.
Show all three activities
Review Fluid Dynamics
Show steps
Review some basic fluid dynamics to refresh your understanding of hydrodynamic systems.
Browse courses on
Fluid Dynamics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Revisit the governing equations for conservation of mass, momentum, and energy.
- Review the behavior of fluids under different flow conditions.
- Apply basic fluid dynamics concepts to solve simple problems.
Explore MATLAB Programming
Show steps
Engage in MATLAB tutorials to enhance your programming proficiency for plasma simulations and calculations.
Browse courses on
MATLAB Programming
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Enroll in a beginner-friendly MATLAB tutorial course.
- Follow along with the tutorials and complete the exercises.
- Explore MATLAB documentation and resources for further learning.
Simulate Plasma Dynamics
Show steps
Build your understanding of plasma dynamics by creating a simulation using techniques covered in the course.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a specific plasma phenomenon or behavior to simulate.
- Identify the relevant physical processes and mathematical models.
- Develop a computational model and implement it in a programming language (e.g., MATLAB, Python).
- Run the simulation and analyze the results.
- Compare your simulation results with experimental data or theoretical predictions.
Show all three activities
Career center
Learners who complete Plasma Physics: Introduction will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Plasma Physicist
Plasma Physicist
A Plasma Physicist researches the phenomena of the fourth state of matter, plasma, which is found in stars, the Sun, fluorescent lights, and other areas. Those who wish to become Plasma Physicists often pursue a Ph.D. to build on their knowledge. This course helps build a foundation for those who wish to become Plasma Physicists by teaching students about the basic knowledge of plasma physics and the different models used to describe plasmas. It also teaches students about how to numerically simulate complex plasma dynamics.
Astrophysicist
Astrophysicist
Astrophysicists study the physical properties of celestial bodies and the laws that govern them. This course may be useful for Astrophysicists because it teaches students about the basic knowledge of plasma physics and the different models used to describe plasmas. This knowledge may be helpful for Astrophysicists who work with plasma physics in their research.
Nuclear Physicist
Nuclear Physicist
Nuclear Physicists study the structure, properties, and interactions of atomic nuclei. They use their knowledge to develop new technologies, such as nuclear power plants and medical imaging devices. This course may be useful for Nuclear Physicists because it teaches students about the fluid description of plasmas and how to simulate complex plasma dynamics. This knowledge may be helpful for Nuclear Physicists who work with plasma physics in their research.
Materials Scientist
Materials Scientist
Materials Scientists research and develop new materials with improved properties and performance. This course may be useful for Materials Scientists who work with plasma-based materials processing techniques. The course teaches students about the basic knowledge of plasma physics and the different models used to describe plasmas. This knowledge can help Materials Scientists to better understand the plasma-based materials processing techniques they are using and to develop more effective materials.
Chemical Engineer
Chemical Engineer
Chemical Engineers design, build, and maintain chemical plants and processes. This course may be useful for Chemical Engineers who work on developing plasma-based chemical processes. The course teaches students about the basic knowledge of plasma physics and the different models used to describe plasmas. This knowledge can help Chemical Engineers to better understand the plasma-based chemical processes they are working on and to design more effective processes.
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineers design, build, and maintain systems to protect the environment. This course may be useful for Environmental Engineers who work on developing plasma-based pollution control systems. The course teaches students about the basic knowledge of plasma physics and the different models used to describe plasmas. This knowledge can help Environmental Engineers to better understand the plasma-based pollution control systems they are working on and to design more effective systems.
Biomedical Engineer
Biomedical Engineer
Biomedical Engineers design, build, and maintain medical devices and systems. This course may be useful for Biomedical Engineers who work on developing plasma-based medical devices and systems. The course teaches students about the basic knowledge of plasma physics and the different models used to describe plasmas. This knowledge can help Biomedical Engineers to better understand the plasma-based medical devices and systems they are working on and to design more effective devices and systems.
Data Scientist
Data Scientist
Data Scientists collect, analyze, and interpret data to solve problems and make informed decisions. This course may be useful for Data Scientists who work with plasma physics data. The course teaches students about the basic knowledge of plasma physics and the different models used to describe plasmas. This knowledge can help Data Scientists to better understand the data they are working with and to develop more accurate and reliable models.
Aerospace Engineer
Aerospace Engineer
Aerospace Engineers design, build, and maintain aircraft, spacecraft, and other aerospace vehicles. This course may be useful for Aerospace Engineers who work on developing plasma-based propulsion systems. The course teaches students about the basic knowledge of plasma physics and the different models used to describe plasmas. This knowledge can help Aerospace Engineers to better understand the plasma-based propulsion systems they are working on and to design more effective systems.
Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineers design, build, and maintain electrical systems. This course may be useful for Electrical Engineers who work on developing plasma-based systems. The course teaches students about the basic knowledge of plasma physics and the different models used to describe plasmas. This knowledge can help Electrical Engineers to better understand the plasma-based systems they are working on and to design more effective systems.
Robotics Engineer
Robotics Engineer
Robotics Engineers design, build, and maintain robots. This course may be useful for Robotics Engineers who work on developing plasma-based robots. The course teaches students about the basic knowledge of plasma physics and the different models used to describe plasmas. This knowledge can help Robotics Engineers to better understand the plasma-based robots they are working on and to design more effective robots.
Systems Engineer
Systems Engineer
Systems Engineers design, build, and maintain complex systems of hardware and software. This course may be useful for Systems Engineers who work on developing plasma-based systems. The course teaches students about the basic knowledge of plasma physics and the different models used to describe plasmas. This knowledge can help Systems Engineers to better understand the plasma-based systems they are working on and to design more effective systems.
Nuclear Engineer
Nuclear Engineer
Nuclear Engineers design, build, and maintain nuclear power plants and other nuclear facilities. This course may be useful for Nuclear Engineers who work on developing plasma-based nuclear fusion reactors. The course teaches students about the basic knowledge of plasma physics and the different models used to describe plasmas. This knowledge can help Nuclear Engineers to better understand the plasma-based nuclear fusion reactors they are working on and to design more effective reactors.
Software Engineer
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, build, and maintain computer systems and applications. This course may be useful for Software Engineers who work on developing software for plasma physics applications. The course teaches students about the basic knowledge of plasma physics and the different models used to describe plasmas. This knowledge can help Software Engineers to better understand the requirements of plasma physics applications and to develop more effective software.
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical Engineers design, build, and maintain mechanical systems. This course may be useful for Mechanical Engineers who work on developing plasma-based systems. The course teaches students about the basic knowledge of plasma physics and the different models used to describe plasmas. This knowledge can help Mechanical Engineers to better understand the plasma-based systems they are working on and to design more effective systems.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/55zze2/plasma
Reading list
We've selected 21 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Plasma Physics: Introduction.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental principles of plasma physics, covering topics such as plasma waves, instabilities, and transport processes. It valuable resource for students and researchers interested in gaining a deeper understanding of plasma physics.
Provides a clear and concise introduction to plasma physics, with a focus on controlled fusion. It is an excellent resource for students and researchers interested in learning about the basic principles of plasma physics and its applications in fusion energy.
Provides a comprehensive overview of plasma physics as it applies to astrophysics. It covers topics such as the properties of plasmas, plasma waves, and plasma instabilities. It valuable resource for students and researchers interested in astrophysics.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of plasma physics and fusion energy. It covers topics such as the basic properties of plasmas, plasma waves, and plasma instabilities. It valuable resource for students and researchers interested in plasma physics and fusion energy.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the theory of fusion plasmas. It covers topics such as the basic properties of fusion plasmas, plasma waves, and plasma instabilities. It valuable resource for students and researchers interested in fusion plasma physics.
Provides a comprehensive overview of plasma physics and controlled nuclear fusion. It covers topics such as the basic properties of plasmas, plasma waves, and plasma instabilities. It valuable resource for students and researchers interested in plasma physics and controlled nuclear fusion.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of plasma physics and nuclear fusion. It covers topics such as the basic properties of plasmas, plasma waves, and plasma instabilities. It valuable resource for students and researchers interested in plasma physics and nuclear fusion.
Comprehensive reference on plasma physics. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic concepts to advanced topics. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about plasma physics.
Comprehensive introduction to plasma physics, covering a wide range of topics from basic concepts to advanced topics such as plasma waves and instabilities. It can be used as a textbook for a graduate course on plasma physics.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the physics of plasmas. It covers topics such as the basic properties of plasmas, plasma waves, and plasma instabilities. It valuable resource for students and researchers interested in plasma physics.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of plasma physics. It covers topics such as the basic properties of plasmas, plasma waves, and plasma instabilities. It valuable resource for students and researchers interested in plasma physics.
Provides a clear and concise introduction to plasma physics. It covers topics such as the basic properties of plasmas, kinetic theory, and fluid dynamics. It is an excellent resource for students and researchers interested in learning about the basic principles of plasma physics.
Provides a comprehensive overview of plasma physics and magnetohydrodynamics, covering both basic concepts and advanced topics. It good resource for students and researchers who are interested in learning more about plasma physics.
Provides a comprehensive overview of plasma physics for applications. It covers topics such as the basic properties of plasmas, plasma waves, and plasma instabilities. It valuable resource for students and researchers interested in plasma physics and its applications.
Save
Provides a clear and concise introduction to plasma physics. It covers topics such as the basic properties of plasmas, kinetic theory, and fluid dynamics. It is an excellent resource for students and researchers interested in learning about the basic principles of plasma physics.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to plasma physics, covering a wide range of topics from basic concepts to advanced topics such as plasma waves and instabilities. It can be used as a textbook for a graduate course on plasma physics.
Provides a good overview of plasma physics in the context of astrophysics. It covers topics such as the formation and properties of astrophysical plasmas, as well as the basic equations and concepts of magnetohydrodynamics.
Provides a comprehensive overview of nonlinear plasma waves, covering both basic concepts and advanced topics. It good resource for students and researchers who are interested in learning more about nonlinear plasma waves.
Is an undergraduate-level textbook on plasma physics. It provides a clear and concise introduction to the subject, covering a wide range of topics. It good choice for students who are new to plasma physics.
Save
Graduate-level textbook on plasma physics. It provides a comprehensive overview of the field, from basic concepts to advanced topics. It valuable resource for students and researchers who are interested in learning more about plasma physics.
Save
Graduate-level textbook on plasma physics and fusion energy. It provides a comprehensive overview of the field, from basic concepts to advanced topics. It valuable resource for students and researchers who are interested in learning more about plasma physics and fusion energy.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/55zze2/plasma
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Effort
5 to 6 hours per week for 8 weeks
Level
Intermediate
Via
edX
Institution
École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
Instructors
Ambrogio Fasoli
Paolo Ricci
Alan Howling
Christian Theiler
Duccio Testa
Ivo Furno
Jean-Philippe Hogge
Language
English
Transcript
English
Good to know
Examines the fourth state of matter, which is essential for understanding astrophysical phenomena, industrial and medical applications, and nuclear fusion energy
Provides an opportunity to acquire basic knowledge of plasma physics in a rigorous and comprehensive manner
Teaches numerical simulation techniques for complex plasma dynamics, a valuable tool in research and industry
Offers insights into plasma control through magnetic fields, expanding learners' capabilities in plasma manipulation
Provides basic MATLAB programming knowledge, enhancing learners' ability to work with plasma-related data
Requires familiarity with physics and mathematics concepts, making it suitable for those with a background in these disciplines
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