Question

I read that plasma is the fourth state of matter. In the same book, it stated that plasma was (basically) shattered particles, using fire as an example. Is this true?

Asked by: Aroura

 Answer

A plasma, as defined by physicists, is a gas-like state of matter in which all (or many) of the electrons have been stripped from the nuclei they orbit. Atoms are not otherwise bound to each other as in a crystal or a metal. The negatively charged electrons and the positively charged nuclei (ions) co-exist and intermingle but do not, on the average, recombine to form stable, neutral atoms.

Actually, recombination of electrons and nuclei occurs continuously, which process is accompanied by the emission of light. This is why a plasma, such as occurs within a neon tube, or a flame, gives off a characteristic light. But, due to thermal energy (flame) or continued electrical excitation (neon tube), recombined electrons/ions are quickly knocked apart again, maintaining the average state of a mixture of free electrons and ions.

So, yes, the book is correct. A plasma consists, in effect, of 'shattered particles,' with 'shattered' meaning that the atoms are maintained, on the average, in an ionized condition, with the stripped electrons and resulting ions intermingling in a glowing, gas-like state.

Answered by: Warren Davis, Ph.D., President, Davis Associates, Inc., Newton, MA USA

Search

Loading



Sponsors

USC University of Southern California Dornsife College Physics and Astronomy Department McMaster University Physics and Astronomy Department

Science Quote

'The mathematician's patterns, like the painter's or the poets, must be beautiful; the ideas, like the colours or the words, must fit together in a harmonious way. Beauty is the first test: there is no permanent place in the world for ugly mathematics.'

Godfrey Hardy
(1877-1947)

Deal of the Day

Image of Hover Craft Kit. Click on this image for more info. Hover Craft Kit
Regular Price: $29.99
Today's Price: $12.00
Learn the science behind hover craft technology with this cool kit! Buy it now! Deal ends at midnight!

Top Selling

Here are our physics & astronomy bestsellers:
Mini Plasma Ball
Slide Making Kit
Top Secret - Spinning Top
Wood Grain Newtons Cradle
Deluxe 3D Mirascope
Solar Radiometer
Periscope
Solar Science 4M Kit
Ultimate Chemistry Set CHEM C3000
3D Magnetic Field Tube