plasma, electromagnetic theory, fusion energy, Robert Hirsch, plasma confinement, tokamak, ITER, Alfvén waves, John Dawson, Space plasma physics, Maxwell's equations, Langmuir probe, magnetohydrodynamics (MHD), Los Alamos National Laboratory, Princeton Pla

Plasma is an ionized state of matter, like in stars or fusion reactors. Electromagnetic theory, based on Maxwell’s equations, explains how electric and magnetic fields interact, crucial for plasma physics. Fusion energy aims to replicate the sun’s power by fusing atomic nuclei, with devices like tokamaks and the ITER project designed to contain hot plasma through magnetic confinement. Robert Hirsch contributed to fusion progress, while John Dawson advanced plasma physics, including Alfvén waves—oscillations within plasmas. Space plasma physics studies naturally occurring plasmas, such as those around Earth. Tools like Langmuir probes analyze plasma properties, and MHD models describe plasma fluid behavior, all forming the foundation of ongoing research at labs like Los Alamos and Princeton.