The interaction of radiation with matter is a fundamental process in the universe; in particular, the absorption and scattering of radiation by matter (the opacity) govern the formation, evolution, and structure of stars and planets. But opacity is also important in many terrestrial applications in which radiation is the dominant means of energy transfer, such as controlled nuclear-fusion, laser ablation, atmospheric entry and reentry, and the "greenhouse" effect. This book covers all aspects of opacity and equations of state for plasmas, gases, vapors, and dust and emphasizes the continuous transformation of phases and molecular compositions with changing density and temperature under conditions of local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE) while preserving the basic abundances of the chemical elements in a mixture.
A comprehensive review is presented on opacity and equation of state calculations for gases, plasmas, and grains. The continuous trasnformation of the equilibrium composition of these phases of matter as a function of temperature and density is emphasized. Absorption and scattering processes are described that affect opacities in regions of interest to science and technology, up to temperatures of about 1 x 10(9) (o) K and densities of about 10(9) g cm (-3). Reliability of results based on various approximations are given and cross sections are compared with experimental values where available. Opacity tables are presented for air, "glass", a few elements, and astrophysical mixtures. This book covers all aspects of opacity and equations of state for gases, plasmas, and dust The discussion emphasizes the continuous transformation of the equilibrium compositions of these phases as a function of temperature and density Discusses the terrestrial applications of opacity in which radiation is the dominant means of energy transfer, such as controlled-fusion, laser ablation, and the "greenhouse" effect Includes supplementary material: sn.pub/extras
Autor*in
Walter F. Huebner
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“The authors approach their subject in a
comprehensive and thorough manner. … It is a ‘must buy’ for any library
concerned with atomic and molecular physics and astronomy theory, and a
highly-recommended textbook for all students concerned with radiative processes.”
(Simon Jeffery, The Observatory, Vol. 135 (1245), April, 2015)