Waves in magnetically active plasma

The book presents a systematic theory of electromagnetic wave propagation in plasma. Plasma is considered as a material medium with not only frequency but also spatial dispersion, discussing general issues of linear electrodynamics of media with spatial dispersion, as well as various models used to describe collisionless plasma and their areas of applicability. Particle collisions in fully ionized and weakly ionized plasma are taken into account. A model described by a kinetic equation is discussed in detail. Based on this model, the dielectric permittivity of isotropic and anisotropic plasma is calculated in the absence of external fields. The behavior of plasma in an external electric field is also illuminated. The central focus of the book is the study of wave propagation in plasma. Waves in homogeneous and isotropic plasma in the absence of external fields are considered, followed by waves in homogeneous magnetically active plasma (cold and hot). The stability of homogeneous anisotropic plasma is discussed. The final sections of the book address highly relevant issues - waves in inhomogeneous and non-equilibrium plasma and the stability of magnetic plasma confinement. The book is recommended for a wide range of physicists - students, teachers, and researchers.