PHYS5562 Astrophysical Plasma
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PHYS5562 Astrophysical Plasma

Basic concepts in plasma physics will be discussed, such as plasma waves, shocks, instabilities, turbulence, and magnetic reconnection. In addition, the concepts will be illustrated by astronomical phenomena, such as solar flares, cosmic rays, and interstellar turbulence.

Lecturer

Prof. Hua-bai Li [ Webpage ]

Lecture Class

Tue. 4:30 pm - 6:15 pm (Y.C. Liang Hall 101)
Thu. 4:30 pm - 6:15 pm (Science Centre L3)

Textbook(s)

1. Fundamentals of Plasma Physics by Paul M. Bellan
2. Introduction to Plasma Physics: With Space, Laboratory and Astrophysical Applications by Donald A. Gurnett & Amitava Bhattacharjee
3. The Physics of Astrophysics Volume II: Gas Dynamics by Frank Shu

Assessment Scheme

Mid-term Exam. - 45%
Final Exam. - 45%
HW - 10%

Course Outline

1. Vlasov, two-fluid and MHD models
2. Plasma waves
3. MHD shocks
4. Instabilities
5. Magnetic reconnection
6. Turbulence