Basic Plasma Physics I

Since the publication of the original volumes in 1983 and 1984 a demand has arisen for a compact version of the Handbook suitable for graduate students. The editors have therefore made a selection of chapters based on the educational needs of graduate students embarking on a study of plasma physics.

Most of the chapters are devoted to the theory of small amplitude perturbations which is the most well developed aspect of the subject. The remaining ones are concerned with weak nonlinear waves, and collapse and self-focusing of Langmuir waves, two topics of widespread interest and application. Finally an important chapter on particle simulation has been included, as that numerical technique plays an essential role in the development an understanding of plasma physics.

The unabridged author and subject index have been specially adapted for this edition and provide an opening to literature and terminology of yet unrivalled breadth.