Introduction to Plasmas and Plasma Dynamics (2^nd Ed.)
With Plasma Physics Applications to Space Propulsion, Magnetic Fusion and Space Physics

Introduction to Plasmas and Plasma Dynamics: With Plasma Physics Applications to Space Propulsion, Second Edition provides an accessible introduction to the understanding of the high temperature, ionized gases necessary to conduct research and develop applications related to plasmas. Thoroughly updated and expanded, this second edition is also amended for greater ease of use with the inclusion of self-study problems. New chapters addressing numerical methods in plasmas, the kinetic description and analysis of plasma, and the chemistry of the ionosphere open up this subject to a broader range of readers. Starting with the essential theory, this book goes on to describe relevant devices and mechanisms, before presenting a clear outline of the analysis and numerical details of plasma. The latest trends, concepts, and applications in plasma engineering are also addressed, including plasma formation and magnetic fusion, plasma thrusters and space propulsion.

1. The Plasma Medium and Plasma Devices PART I Physics Concepts 2. Kinetic Theory of Gases 3. Molecular Energy Distribution and Ionization in Gases 4. Electromagnetics PART II Plasma Concepts 5. Plasma Parameters and Regimes of Interaction 6. Particle Orbit Theory 7. Macroscopic Equations of Plasmas 8. Hydromagnetics; Fluid Behavior of Plasmas 9. Introduction to Kinetic Behavior and Analysis 10. Numerical Simulation and Plasma Representations PART III Plasma Physics Applications 11. Plasma Acceleration and Energy Conversion 12. Plasma Thrusters 13. Magnetic Compression and Heating 14. Wave Heating of Plasmas 15. Magnetic Fusion Plasmas 16. Space Plasma: Environment and Plasma Dynamics

Dr. Hai-Bin Tang is Professor of Aerospace Science and Technology, and Vice Dean of the School of Astronautics at Beihang University, China. His research interests include plasma and fluid physics, electric propulsion and space propulsion systems, numerical modeling, and experimental measurement.

• Describes plasma applications with close reference to elementary processes, promoting a deeper understanding of plasmas in new fields
• Provides structured problems in every chapter that help readers grasp the book’s practical lessons
• Includes a new chapter on numerical methods in plasmas that adds crucial context for experimental approaches