Plasma


In space and astronautical engineering, plasma is a state of matter that consists of a gas of ions, atoms, and free electrons, which is often referred to as the fourth state of matter. Plasma is the most common state of matter in the universe, and it is found in stars, lightning, and the Earth's ionosphere. In space, plasma is a major concern for spacecraft, as it can cause damage to electronics and interfere with communication systems. Plasma is also used in various applications, such as plasma thrusters for spacecraft propulsion, plasma cutting and welding, and plasma processing for semiconductor manufacturing.


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