Often called the fourth state of matter, plasma is an ionized gas consisting of free electrons and positive ions. Unlike solids, liquids, or gases, plasma is created by heating a gas to extremely high temperatures or subjecting it to a strong electromagnetic field. This process strips electrons from atoms, making the substance electrically conductive.
While relatively rare on Earth, plasma is the most abundant form of ordinary matter in the universe, making up over 99% of the visible cosmos. It fuels the stars—including our Sun—and creates natural phenomena like lightning and the auroras. In technology, we harness plasma for neon signs, plasma globe lamps, and advanced applications like fusion energy research.
Would you like me to explain the specific differences between "thermal" and "non-thermal" plasma?
