Chapter 11: Problem 57

Many scientists think that more than 99\(\%\) of the known matter in the universe is made of a fourth state of matter called plasma. Research plasmas, and report your findings to the class.

Short Answer

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Plasma is the fourth state of matter and is often considered as an ionized gas with unique properties. It constitutes of more than 99% of the universe as stars, which are made up of plasma, account for a large portion of visible universe.

Step by step solution

Understanding Plasma

Plasma is often referred to as the fourth state of matter, distinct from solid, liquid, and gas states. It is an ionized gas consisting of positive ions and free electrons in proportions that result in more or less no overall electric charge, typically at low pressures (as in the upper atmosphere and in fluorescent lamps) or at very high temperatures (as in stars and nuclear fusion reactors). The basic research includes understanding these concepts.

Discovery of Plasma

Plasma was first identified in a Crookes tube, and so described by Sir William Crookes in 1879 (he called it 'radiant matter'). The nature of the Crookes tube 'cathode ray' matter was subsequently identified by British physicist Sir J.J. Thomson in 1897, and dubbed 'plasma' by Irving Langmuir in 1928. Get the details of these discoveries and understand the historical background.

Properties of Plasma

Plasma has properties unlike those of the other states of matter. Plasma does not have a definite shape or a definite volume unless enclosed in a container; unlike gas, in the influence of a magnetic field, it may form structures such as filaments, beams and double layers. Understand these unique properties of plasma.

Plasma in the Universe

Many scientists speculate that more than 99% of matter in the universe is in the plasma state. This is because stars are made up of plasma and stars account for a large percentage of the visible universe. Specify how plasma constitutes a major part of the universe in the report.

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Many scientists think that more than 99\(\%\) of the known matter in the universe is made of a fourth state of matter called plasma. Research plasmas, and report your findings to the class.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understanding Plasma

Discovery of Plasma

Properties of Plasma

Plasma in the Universe

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