Plasma Problems

This thesis deals with an optimization problem from the field of theoretical plasma physics. Specifically, it deals with the question of how the accelerated electrons are spatially arranged in a plasma wave generated by a laser pulse. An internal structure of this so-called witness beam is of interest for the radiation characteristics of such electron beams, in particular with regard to the coherence of the generated radiation. The resulting internal structure of the electron beam is a result of the interaction of the electrons with each other and the electric fields of the wakefield, therefore it is determined by solving a minimization problem. The thesis builds on previous results in this field and aims to find suggestions for improved algorithms to determine the minimum sought.

Fundamentals of Plasma Physics is a comprehensive textbook designed to present a logical and unified treatment of the fundamentals of plasma physics based on statistical kinetic theory, with applications to a variety of important plasma phenomena. The clarity and completeness of the text makes it suitable for self-learning.

Plasma processing of semiconductors is an interdisciplinary field requiring knowledge of both plasma physics and chemical engineering. The two authors are experts in each of these fields, and their collaboration results in the merging of these fields with a common terminology. Basic plasma concepts are introduced painlessly to those who have studied undergraduate electromagnetics but have had no previous exposure to plasmas. Unnecessarily detailed derivations are omitted; yet the reader is led to understand in some depth those concepts, such as the structure of sheaths, that are important in the design and operation of plasma processing reactors. Physicists not accustomed to low-temperature plasmas are introduced to chemical kinetics, surface science, and molecular spectroscopy. The material has been condensed to suit a nine-week graduate course, but it is sufficient to bring the reader up to date on current problems such as copper interconnects, low-k and high-k dielectrics, and oxide damage. Students will appreciate the web-style layout with ample color illustrations opposite the text, with ample room for notes.

This book is intended as an introduction to plasma physics at a level suitable for advanced undergraduates or beginning postgraduate students in physics, applied mathematics or astrophysics. The main prerequisite is a knowledge of electromagnetism and of the associated mathematics of vector calculus. SI units are used throughout. There is still a tendency amongst some plasma physics researchers to· cling to C.g.S. units, but it is the author's view that universal adoption of SI units, which have been the internationally agreed standard since 1960, is to be encouraged. After a short introductory chapter, the basic properties of a plasma con­ cerning particle orbits, fluid theory, Coulomb collisions and waves are set out in Chapters 2-5, with illustrations drawn from problems in nuclear fusion research and space physics. The emphasis is on the essential physics involved and (he theoretical and mathematical approach has been kept as simple and intuitive as possible. An attempt has been made to draw attention to areas of current research and to present plasma physics as a developing subject with many areas ofuncertainty, and not as something to be set forth on 'tablets of stone'.

This textbook is intended as an introduction to the physics of solar and stellar coronae, emphasizing kinetic plasma processes. It is addressed to observational astronomers, graduate students, and advanced undergraduates without a back­ ground in plasma physics. Coronal physics is today a vast field with many different aims and goals. Sort­ ing out the really important aspects of an observed phenomenon and using the physics best suited for the case is a formidable problem.