Features
ISBN Number: 9780792365129
Author: Somov, Boris V.
Author: Somov, B. V.
Publisher: Kluwer Academic Publishers
Location: Dordrecht
Subject: Physics
Subject: Astrophysics & Space Science
Subject: Space plasmas
Series: Astrophysics and space science library ;
Series Volume: v. 251
Publication Date: January 2001
Cover Type: Hardcover
Written in: English
Illustrations: Yes
Number of Pages: 672
Book Size: 921x614x150 246
The scope of this book is not typical of the majority of texts in cosmic plasma physics. The consecutive consideration of physical principles, starting from the most general ones, and simplifying assumptions allows students interested in astronomy to find the answers to two key questions: (1) what approximation is the simplest, but still sufficient for the description of a phenomenon in cosmic plasmas, and (2) how to build an adequate model of this phenomenon. Astronomers of the future will need such tools. Astronomy of the future will become an increasingly more precise science, similar to physics or plasma physics. This is what the book aims to teach.
Book News Annotation:
A physical and mathematical introduction to plasma physics for
students without background in plasma physics, but with previous
courses in general physics and some initial knowledge of theoretical
physics. Most chapters begin with an elementary account and simple
examples, and finish with modern results of scientific importance.
Coverage includes particles and fields, propagation of accelerated
particles in cosmic plasma, wave-particle interactions, cosmic plasma
flows in a strong magnetic field, discontinuous flows in a MHD
medium, structural instability of reconnecting current sheets, and
magnetic reconnection of electric currents. Somov teaches physics at
Moscow State University.
Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
Description:
Includes bibliographical references (p. 607-638) and index.
