Plasma Physics
3 terms
Saha Ionization Equation
Plasma Physics
m⁻³ (Ionization Balance Density)
A thermodynamic relation expressing the ionization state of a plasma in thermal equilibrium as a function of temperature and electron density.
(n_i+1 n_e) / n_i = (2 g_i+1 / g_i) (2 π m_e k_B T / h²)^(3/2) e^(-E_ion / (k_B T))
Solar Wind
Plasma Physics
km/s (Velocity) & cm⁻³ (Density)
A continuous supersonic stream of fully ionized magnetoplasma (protons, electrons, alpha particles) expanding outward from the Sun's corona into interstellar space.
v_sw ≈ 300–800 km/s, n_e ≈ 5 cm⁻³ at 1 AU
Stellarator
Plasma Physics
Dimensionless Magnetic Transform
A magnetic confinement fusion device that produces a helical magnetic field using complex, 3D non-planar external electromagnetic coils without requiring net plasma current.
Rotational Transform ι = 1 / q (Generated entirely by 3D external coils)