Ionized Gas
Ionized gas refers to a gas that has been stripped of one or more electrons, resulting in the formation of ions. In the context of space and astronautical engineering, ionized gas is of particular interest due to its role in plasma propulsion systems. These systems work by ionizing a gas, typically xenon, and accelerating the resulting ions using electric fields to generate thrust. Ionized gas is also important in the study of space weather, as it is a key component of the ionosphere, a region of the Earth's upper atmosphere that is ionized by solar radiation. Understanding the behavior of ionized gas in the ionosphere is crucial for predicting and mitigating the effects of space weather on satellite and communication systems.
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