Ionized gas

Ionized gas, also called plasma, is a state of matter where some atoms have lost or gained electrons, making the gas electrically charged. This process occurs when energy—such as heat, electricity, or radiation—is added, causing atoms to strip or gain electrons. Ionized gases are common in nature and technology, found in stars, lightning, neon signs, and plasma displays. Because they contain free-moving charged particles, plasmas conduct electricity and respond to magnetic fields. Despite being less familiar than solids, liquids, or standard gases, plasmas are essential in many scientific and industrial applications.