Complex Plasmas as Model Systems for Kinetic Investigations
Research report (imported) 2003 - Max Planck Institute for extraterrestrial Physics
Summary
Progress in the kinetics of complex (dusty) plasmas is highlighted: The phase diagram of complex plasmas is presented, where the classification of different states is based on the momentum transfer rate in mutual (grain-grain) collisions. The role of the momentum transfer to the background medium (neutral gas) is analyzed, and the conditions when complex plasmas can be considered as one-phase fluids are derived. Also, the kinetics of grains with variable charges is studied, and complex plasmas are shown to be natural model systems to study non-Hamiltonian ensembles. Finally, the significance of complex plasmas for interdisciplinary studies is discussed.