Fluid Models

Abstract

In the single-particle model (Chap. 3) the motion of the particles was derived from fixed external electric and magnetic fields. This approach is very useful to obtain a first insight into the richness of plasma motion, which results in a host of particle drifts. The major drawback of this model is the neglect of the modification of the fields by the electric currents represented by these drifts. The present chapter on fluid models attempts to overcome this weakness.

“The time has come,” the Walrus said, “To talk of many things: Of shoes—and ships—and sealing wax— Of cabbages—and kings— And why the sea is boiling hot— And whether pigs have wings.”

Lewis Carroll, Through the Looking-Glass