Quantum Statistics Of Nonideal Plasmas

This book deals with the statistical theory of strongly coupled Coulomb systems. After an elementary introduction to the physics of nonideal plasmas, a presentation of the method of (nonequilibrium) Green's functions is given. On this basis, the dielectric, thermodynamic, transport, and relaxation properties are discussed systematically. Especially, the behavior of bound states in the surrounding plasma (lowering of the ionization energy), the ionization kinetics, and the equation of state of dense partially ionized hydrogen are each carefully investigated. Furthermore, generalized kinetic equations are derived which are also valid for short time scales. They are applied to ultra-fast processes and to plasmas in laser fields.

The aim of this book is the pedagogical exploration of the basic principles of quantum-statistical thermodynamics as applied to various states of matter – ranging from rare gases to astrophysical matter with high-energy density. The reader will learn in this work that thermodynamics and quantum statistics are still the concepts on which even the most advanced research is operating - despite of a flood of modern concepts, classical entities like temperature, pressure, energy and entropy are shown to remain fundamental. The physics of gases, plasmas and high-energy density matter is still a growing field and even though solids and liquids dominate our daily life, more than 99 percent of the visible Universe is in the state of gases and plasmas and the overwhelming part of matter exists at extreme conditions connected with very large energy densities, such as in the interior of stars. This text, combining material from lectures and advanced seminars given by the authors over many decades, is a must-have introduction and reference for both newcomers and seasoned researchers alike.

Kinetic Theory of Nonideal Gases and Nonideal Plasmas presents the fundamental aspects of the kinetic theory of gases and plasmas. The book consists of three parts, which attempts to present some of the ideas, methods and applications in the study of the kinetic processes in nonideal gases and plasmas. The first part focuses on the classical kinetic theory of nonideal gases. The second part discusses the classical kinetic theory of fully ionized plasmas. The last part is devoted to the quantum kinetic theory of nonideal gases and plasmas. A concluding chapter is included, which presents a short account of the kinetic theory of chemically reacting systems and of partially ionized plasmas, in order to espouse further studies in the field. Physicists, scientific researchers, professors, and graduate students in various fields will find the text of good use.

Most of the matter in our universe is in a gaseous or plasma state. Yet, most textbooks on quantum statistics focus on examples from and applications in condensed matter systems, due to the prevalence of solids and liquids in our day-to-day lives. In an attempt to remedy that oversight, this book consciously focuses on teaching the subject matter in the context of (dilute) gases and plasmas, while aiming primarily at graduate students and young researchers in the field of quantum gases and plasmas for some of the more advanced topics. The majority of the material is based on a two-semester course held jointly by the authors over many years, and has benefited from extensive feedback provided by countless students and co-workers. The book also includes many historical remarks on the roots of quantum statistics: firstly because students appreciate and are strongly motivated by looking back at the history of a given field of research, and secondly because the spirit permeating this book has been deeply influenced by meetings and discussions with several pioneers of quantum statistics over the past few decades.

Complex plasmas differ from traditional plasmas in many ways: these are low-temperature high pressure systems containing nanometer to micrometer size particles which may be highly charged and strongly interacting. The particles may be chemically reacting or be in contact with solid surfaces, and the electrons may show quantum behaviour. These interesting properties have led to many applications of complex plasmas in technology, medicine and science. Yet complex plasmas are extremely complicated, both experimentally and theoretically, and require a variety of new approaches which go beyond standard plasma physics courses. This book fills this gap presenting an introduction to theory, experiment and computer simulation in this field. Based on tutorial lectures at a very successful recent Summer Institute, the presentation is ideally suited for graduate students, plasma physicists and experienced undergraduates.

This book provides the reader with an introduction to the physics of complex plasmas, a discussion of the specific scientific and technical challenges they present and an overview of their potential technological applications. Complex plasmas differ from conventional high-temperature plasmas in several ways: they may contain additional species, including nano meter- to micrometer-sized particles, negative ions, molecules and radicals and they may exhibit strong correlations or quantum effects. This book introduces the classical and quantum mechanical approaches used to describe and simulate complex plasmas. It also covers some key experimental techniques used in the analysis of these plasmas, including calorimetric probe methods, IR absorption techniques and X-ray absorption spectroscopy. The final part of the book reviews the emerging applications of microcavity and microchannel plasmas, the synthesis and assembly of nanomaterials through plasma electrochemistry, the large-scale generation of ozone using microplasmas and novel applications of atmospheric-pressure non-thermal plasmas in dentistry. Going beyond the scope of traditional plasma texts, the presentation is very well suited for senior undergraduate, graduate students and postdoctoral researchers specializing in plasma physics.

The book is devoted to the physical properties of nonideal plasma, in which the effects of interparticle interactions are substantial. Such a plasma is usually compressed so strongly that it is called dense plasma. Interest in plasma studies has increased over the last 10 or 15 years, owing to the development of modern technology and sophisticated facilities whose oper ation is based on a high energy density. As a result of a recent sharp increase in the number of experimental and theoretical investigations, much interesting and reliable data on the properties of dense plasma have been obtained. The data are distributed in a rapidly growing number of original publications and reviews. This volume is a systematic treatment of the thermodynamics (ionization equilibrium, particle composition), charge transport properties (especially electric con ductivity), optical properties (peculiarities of continuous and discrete spectra), and collective modes (features and manifestations) of nonideal plasma. Theoretical models are considered along with the experimental data. The book is intended for the wide range of readers, including specialists in plasma physics and various researchers who need knowledge in this field.

Quantum statistics of almost classical assemblies -- Statistical theory of low frequency intermolecular forces -- The structure of liquid helium with Robert M. Mazo -- Atomic distribution in liquid helium-3 with Robert M. Mazo -- Statistical thermodynamics of quantum fluids with Robert M. Mazo -- Quantum statistical theory of plasmas and liquid metals with Robert D. Cowan -- Quantum statistical theory of electron correlation with Robert D. Cowan -- Quantum statistics of nonideal systems with Frank H. Stillinger, Jr. -- Order and disorder in binary solid solutions -- Critical behavior of solid solutions in the order-disorder transformation with H.A. Bethe -- Remarks on the hole theory of condensation -- On phase changes in crystals arising from hindered molecular rotation -- Statistical mechanics of cooperative phenomena -- On the theory of fusion with Elizabeth Monroe -- Statistical mechanics of fusion with Elizabeth Monroe -- Note on the theory of fusion with Elizabeth M. Boggs -- Phase transitions in monolayers due to hindered molecular rotation -- Crystallization as a cooperative phenomenon -- Contribution of lattice vibrations to the order-disorder transformation in alloys by Peter J. Wojtowicz.