Phase Transitions in Two-Dimensional Complex Plasmas

The two experimental studies reported in this thesis contribute important new knowledge about phase transitions in two-dimensional complex plasmas: in one case a determination of the coupling parameter (ratio of mean potential to mean kinetic energy of the particles in an ensemble), and in the other a detailed characterization of the non-equilibrium recrystallization of a two-dimensional system. The latter results are used to establish the connection between structural order parameters and the kinetic energy, which in turn gives novel insights into the underlying physical processes determining the two-dimensional phase transition.

List of contents

Introduction.- Complex Plasmas.- Experiments.- Data Analysis Techniques.- Estimation of the Coupling Strength.- Theory of Phase Transitions in 2D Systems.- Recrystallization of a 2D Plasma Crystal.- Summary and Outlook.- Estimation of Uncertainties in the Particle Coordinates.- Bond of Orientational Order.- Curriculum Vitae.

Summary

The two experimental studies reported in this thesis contribute important new knowledge about phase transitions in two-dimensional complex plasmas: in one case a determination of the coupling parameter (ratio of mean potential to mean kinetic energy of the particles in an ensemble), and in the other a detailed characterization of the non-equilibrium recrystallization of a two-dimensional system. The latter results are used to establish the connection between structural order parameters and the kinetic energy, which in turn gives novel insights into the underlying physical processes determining the two-dimensional phase transition.

Product details

• Authors: Christina A Knapek, Christina A. Knapek
• Publisher: Springer, Berlin
• Languages: English
• Product format: Paperback / Softback
• Released: 01.01.2016
• EAN: 9783662520635
• ISBN: 978-3-662-52063-5
• No. of pages: 158
• Dimensions: 156 mm x 236 mm x 6 mm
• Weight: 273 g
• Illustrations: XI, 158 p.
• Series: Springer Theses; Springer Theses
• Subjects: Natural sciences, medicine, IT, technology > Physics, astronomy > Electricity, magnetism, optics; Plasmaphysik, B, Physics and Astronomy, Interfaces (Physical sciences), Surface and Interface Science, Thin Films, Surface and Interface and Thin Film, Thin films, Surfaces (Physics), Phase Transitions and Multiphase Systems, Phase transitions (Statistical physics), Plasma Physics, Plasma (Ionized gases)