Naked Science Forum

General Science => General Science => Topic started by: Joe L. Ogan on 07/01/2011 00:32:38

Title: What is Plasma?
Post by: Joe L. Ogan on 07/01/2011 00:32:38

What is Plasma?  I see it listed as the fourth element.  i.e. Solid. Gas and liquid.  Now,  I have encountered solid, Gas and liquid but to the best of my knowledge I have never been aware of encountering Plasma.  What does it do?  What are its' properties?  Can we feel it?  Can we touch it?  Can we smell it?  Can we see it?  Can we hear it?  Can we taste it?  How can we be sure that it exists?  Thanks for comments.  Joe L. Ogan

Title: What is Plasma?
Post by: Joe L. Ogan on 07/01/2011 00:56:28

Now, I have read that also, it makes me wonder if it is not a figment of ones' imagination?  Thanks for comments.  Joe L. Ogan

Title: What is Plasma?
Post by: peppercorn on 07/01/2011 01:14:55

Have you tried wikipedia?

Title: What is Plasma?
Post by: CliffordK on 07/01/2011 02:08:42

Not an element, but a state of matter characterized by extreme heat and a dissociation of the electrons from the atoms.

Theories indicate that much of the core of the sun (and Jupiter) consist of plasma.

Some electric welders & cutters also super heat the metals into "plasma".  You can purchase a plasma cutter relatively cheaply now.

Title: What is Plasma?
Post by: Bored chemist on 07/01/2011 11:32:16

A candle flame is a weak plasma. They are not that unusual.

Title: What is Plasma?
Post by: Variola on 07/01/2011 11:43:46

Quote from: peppercorn on 07/01/2011 01:14:55

Have you tried wikipedia?

You make it sound like a drug....

"Psst mate.... wanna try some wiki?"
 [:)]

Title: What is Plasma?
Post by: peppercorn on 07/01/2011 12:35:17

Quote from: Variola on 07/01/2011 11:43:46

Quote from: peppercorn on 07/01/2011 01:14:55

Have you tried wikipedia?

You make it sound like a drug....

"Psst mate.... wanna try some wiki?"
 [:)]

LOL!
It's the new 'meow meow' ya know!

It would be nice, just occasionally with some posters, if a message read along the lines of 'I've tried to understand 'x' for myself,but need help...', instead of what looks like I can't be bothered to use my initiative, give me the answer !!!

Title: What is Plasma?
Post by: Joe L. Ogan on 08/01/2011 21:11:14

You are not required to answer.  Thanks for comments.  Joe L. Ogan