An electrically conductive, partially ionized gas
The Components of a Plasma are:
- Electrons
- Ions
- Free Radicals
- Byproducts
- Photons
- Neutrals
The 4th. State of Matter
The Atom
An atom consists of positive protons in the nucleus, and negative electrons that circulate around the nucleus.
An equal number of positively and negatively charged particles lead to overall neutrality.
The role of Electrons in a Plasma
Free Electrons Required to Initiate Plasma
- Available in gas or from electrodes- Electrons Accelerated by Electric Field Causing:
- Ionization
–Ion Source
- Dissociation
–Radical Source
–Byproduct Source - Excitation
–Light Source - We Get an “Electron Cascade”
