Introduction to Plasmas and Plasma Dynamics

Magnetic Fusion Plasmas

Introduction

In general, we know that the advancement of technology is intimately related to the acquisition and control of energy. The energy we now use is largely derived from fossil fuels whose source was energy deposition from the radiant energy of the Sun. The one new source of energy available for development with current technology is nuclear fusion, the same source of energy resident in the Sun, and it is the goal of controlled fusion research to harness that energy source (Glasstone, 1980). When two hydrogen atoms fuse together to form helium, the binding energy of the helium is significantly greater than that of the hydrogen, and that energy increment is released into the surroundings. The energy is released suddenly, ...