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Chapter 12: Problem 24

What is a plasma? Where are plasmas found in the vicinity of Jupiter?

Short Answer

Expert verified
A plasma is a state of matter consisting of a collection of charged particles containing roughly equal numbers of positive ions and electrons leading to a more or less overall electrically neutral assembly. Plasmas in the vicinity of Jupiter are predominantly located within its magnetosphere and in the Io plasma torus which orbits the planet.

Step by step solution

01

Define Plasma

Plasma is one of the four fundamental states of matter, along with solids, liquids, and gases. It is an ionized gas consisting of positive ions and free electrons in proportions resulting in more or less no overall electric charge. It is typically formed at high temperatures when the kinetic energy of the particles is high enough to overcome the binding energy of the electron to the nucleus of the atom, leading to ionization.
02

Identify Plasmas in proximity to Jupiter

In the vicinity of Jupiter, plasmas can be found mainly in the planet's magnetosphere. This magnetosphere is a region of space created by Jupiter's strong magnetic field where charged particles are trapped. These trapped charged particles often exist in the plasma state. The plasmas can also be found in Jupiter's Ionosphere and its famous torus, the Io plasma torus, a torus of plasma that surrounds Jupiter near the orbit of the moon Io, and is part of Jupiter's magnetosphere.

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