Cosmic Plasma Physics (Astrophysics and Space Science Library (251))

Somov, B.V.

ISBN 10: 0792365127 / ISBN 13: 9780792365129

Published by Springer, 2000

About this Item

Like New.

Seller Inventory # ERICA75807923651276

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Cosmic Plasma Physics (Astrophysics and Space Science Library (251))
• Publisher: Springer
• Publication Date: 2000
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0792365127
• ISBN 13: 9780792365129
• Binding: Hardcover
• Condition: Like New
• Book Type: book

About this title

Synopsis

of the approximation at hand will be outlined from the viewpoint of physics rather than of many possible astronomical applications. After that, as an aid to detailed understanding, please return with pencil and paper to work out the missing steps (if any) in the formal mathematics. On the basis of such an approach the student interested in modern astro­ physics, its current practice, will find the answers to two key questions: (1) what approximation is the best one (the simplest but sufficient) for descrip­ tion of a phenomenon in cosmic plasma; (2) how tO,build an adequate model for the phenomenon, for example, a solar flare. Practice is really important for understanding the theory of cosmic plasma. Related exercises (problems and answers supplemented to each chapter) to improve skill do not thwart the theory but serve to better understanding of cosmic plasma physics. As for the applications, preference evidently is given to physical processes in the solar plasma. Why? - Much attention to solar plasma physics is con­ the possibility of th~ all-round observational test of theoretical ditioned by models. This statement primarily relates to the processes in the solar atmo­ sphere. For instance, flares on the Sun, in contrast to those on other stars as well as a lot of other analogous phenomena in the Universe, can be seen in their development, i. e.

Synopsis

The scope of this book is not typical of the majority of texts in cosmic plasma physics. The consecutive consideration of physical principles, starting from the most general ones, and simplifying assumptions allows students interested in astronomy to find the answers to two key questions: what approximation is the simplest, but still sufficient for the description of a phenomenon in cosmic plasmas, and how to build an adequate model of this phenomenon. Astronomers of the future will need such tools. Astronomy of the future will become an increasingly more precise science, similar to physics or plasma physics. This is what the book aims to teach.