Basic Space Plasma Physics (Third Edition)

This textbook covers Earth's plasma environment, including single-particle motion, collisions, conductivities, ionosphere, magnetosphere, convection, and dynamics. It also discusses space plasma physics, fluid and kinetic wave theory, and plasma instability. The Appendix provides recent developments in statistical particle distributions and space plasma turbulence.

Format: Hardback
Length: 528 pages
Publication date: 11 March 2022
Publisher: World Scientific Publishing Co Pte Ltd

This comprehensive textbook delves into the intricate realm of Earth's plasma environment, encompassing a wide range of topics from single particle motion in electromagnetic fields to the generation and interaction of plasma waves. It explores the formation and dynamics of the ionosphere, magnetospheric convection, magnetospheric dynamics, and the evolution of magnetospheric storms, auroral substorms, and auroral phenomena.

The book begins by discussing the origin and effects of collisions and conductivities in plasma, shedding light on the intricate processes that shape its behavior. It then delves into the formation of the ionosphere, the dynamic interplay between the solar wind and Earth's magnetosphere, and the emergence of magnetospheric storms.

The second half of the book focuses on the theoretical foundations of space plasma physics. It begins with a kinetic theory of plasma, introducing key concepts such as plasma particles, electric and magnetic fields, and thermal fluctuations. The formation of moment equations and the derivation of magnetohydrodynamic theory of plasmas are also covered in detail.

Two-fluid theory is presented in greater depth, providing a comprehensive understanding of the behavior of plasmas in high temperature environments. Fluid boundaries, including Earth's magnetopause and bow shock, are analyzed, highlighting their role in shaping the plasma environment.

The main emphasis of the book is on the presentation of fluid and kinetic wave theory, which is crucial in understanding the dynamics of space plasma. The relevant wave modes in a high temperature space plasma are derived, and plasma instability, a fundamental aspect of all applications, is discussed separately. Thermal fluctuations, a key phenomenon in plasma, are explored in depth, along with collisionless reconnection and collisionless shock waves.

Throughout the text, references to relevant research and scholarly works are provided, allowing readers to delve deeper into the subject matter. The Appendix includes the most recent developments in the theory of statistical particle distributions in space plasma, such as the Kappa distribution, and a section on space plasma turbulence. New observational developments, including a dimensional derivation of the Kolmogorov spectrum, are also emphasized, providing valuable insights for students and researchers alike.

In conclusion, this textbook offers a comprehensive and up-to-date exploration of Earth's plasma environment, covering a wide range of topics from single particle motion to plasma wave generation and wave-particle interaction. It serves as a valuable resource for students, researchers, and professionals in the field of space physics and astrophysics.

ISBN-13: 9789811254055