plasma
Definition
Plasma is the most abundant state of matter in the universe. It is made up of charged particles, such as electrons and ions. Plasma is found in stars, lightning, and fluorescent lights. It is also found in the Earth's atmosphere, in the form of the ionosphere.
Plasma is different from other states of matter because it is not electrically neutral. The charged particles in plasma are attracted to each other, but they are also moving very fast. This means that plasma is a very good conductor of electricity.
Plasma can be created by heating a gas to a very high temperature. This causes the gas molecules to break apart into electrons and ions. Plasma can also be created by exposing gas to a strong electric field.
Plasma is a very important state of matter. It is used in many different technologies, such as fluorescent lights, plasma TVs, and nuclear fusion reactors.
How can the word be used?
Plasma is used to treat burns and other medical conditions.
Different forms of the word
Noun:
- plasma (the fourth state of matter, a gas-like state of matter that is electrically charged).
- plasma (the liquid part of blood, excluding the blood cells).
- plasma (a clear, colourless liquid that is used in some medical procedures).
- plasma (a state of matter in which atoms or molecules are ionized and have lost some or all of their electrons).
Adjective:
- plasmatic (of or relating to plasma).
Etymology
The word "plasma" comes from the Greek word "plasma", which means "something molded or formed".
The word "plasma" was first used in English in the 17th century. It was used to refer to the liquid part of blood.
The root of the word "plasma" is the Greek word "plassein", which means "to mold or form".
So, the word "plasma" literally means "something molded or formed". This is a reference to the fact that plasma is a liquid that is formed when blood cells are separated from the blood plasma.
Question
What is plasma?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Define plasma in the context of matter and explain its unique properties. Describe situations where plasma is commonly found and discuss its significance in fields such as astrophysics and technology.
Answer:
Plasma is a state of matter distinct from solid, liquid, and gas, characterised by the presence of charged particles—ions and electrons—resulting from high temperatures or energetic processes. It's often referred to as the "fourth state of matter." Unlike other states, plasma doesn't have a fixed shape or volume and can conduct electricity due to the mobility of its charged particles.
Plasma is commonly found in various natural and artificial environments. Lightning bolts, flames, and the auroras in Earth's atmosphere are examples of naturally occurring plasmas. Artificially, plasma is used in fluorescent lights, neon signs, and plasma TVs.
Plasma's unique properties and behaviours are of significant interest in astrophysics and technology. The majority of the observable matter in the universe is believed to be in the plasma state, found in stars, solar winds, and interstellar medium. In fusion research, scientists are trying to harness plasma's extreme temperatures and pressure to achieve nuclear fusion, a potentially clean and abundant energy source.
Plasma's ability to conduct electricity makes it valuable in various technological applications, from spacecraft propulsion to plasma cutting in industry. Understanding and manipulating plasma's behaviour has broad implications for both our understanding of the universe and technological advancements on Earth.