Laboratory Plasmas

Laboratory plasmas are controlled environments where matter is in a state called plasma, which consists of charged particles—ions and electrons—created by heating gases or applying strong electric fields. Researchers study plasmas in labs to understand fundamental physics, develop technologies like fusion energy, improve electronics, and advance materials science. Unlike the plasmas found in stars, laboratory plasmas are often short-lived and can be manipulated to explore various phenomena, helping scientists gain insights into both practical applications and the universe's behavior at a fundamental level.