LFU:online

This course provides an introduction to the fundamental physics of plasmas and controlled nuclear fusion, with emphasis on the particle (kinetic) description of plasmas and its application to magnetic confinement fusion. Aimed at bachelor-level physics students, the course builds on core concepts from classical mechanics and electromagnetism to develop a physical understanding of plasma behavior.

The first part of the course introduces basic plasma properties, including collective effects, Debye shielding, plasma oscillations, and particle motion in electric and magnetic fields. Single-particle dynamics, guiding-center motion, drifts, and basic collision processes are treated in detail to establish the particle picture of plasmas. These concepts are used to explain transport phenomena and confinement in magnetized plasmas.

The second part of the course focuses on nuclear fusion and magnetic confinement fusion devices, with particular emphasis on the tokamak. Topics include fusion reactions and cross sections, plasma heating methods, magnetic confinement principles, tokamak geometry, equilibrium and stability concepts, and an overview of key challenges in achieving fusion energy. Throughout the course, theoretical concepts are connected to experimental realizations and modern fusion research.

By the end of the course, students will have a solid foundation in plasma physics and fusion concepts, enabling them to understand the physical principles underlying tokamak operation and to prepare for more advanced studies in plasma physics or fusion energy research.

Summary of Topics

• Definition and basic properties of plasmas

• Collective behavior and characteristic plasma parameters

• Debye shielding and plasma oscillations

• Motion of charged particles in electric and magnetic fields

• Guiding-center theory and particle drifts

• Collisions, transport, and confinement in magnetized plasmas

• Basics of nuclear fusion and fusion reactions

• Energy balance and conditions for fusion

• Magnetic confinement fusion concepts

• Tokamak configuration and magnetic geometry

• Plasma heating methods (ohmic, neutral beam, RF)

• Equilibrium, stability, and transport in tokamaks

• Overview of current tokamak experiments and fusion research challenges

Theoretical classes 2 h per week, and exercises for 1 h per week.

Theoretical examination (oral) + end of semester project

Wird bekanntgegeben.