Plasma Physics Experiments Fundamental Physics and its Applications
Paschen’s law
Introduction
Paschen’s Law
Plasma is usually described as an ionized gas. In fact it is –
The set-up consists of two items: the Plasma Physics
like solids, liquids and gases – a state of aggregation.
Operating Unit (09108-99) and the Plasma Physics
There are many kinds of plasma in nature (well known
Experimental Set (09108-10).
examples are the sun and lightnings) and in technical
In the physical part, the students should verify Paschen’s
applications like plasma TVs or industrial surface treat-
law, i.e. the dependence of the breakdown voltage on the
ments. Nevertheless, students in physics or engineering
distance of the electrodes and the gas (air) pressure. Also
learn nearly nothing about this important topic.
the influence of different gases can be investigated.
So far, hands-on experiments have not been available because the equipment for treating plasmas in a research lab is very expensive and only available at few universities. The PHYWE set-up is designed to enable students to perform plasma experiments and learn about the basics and applications of plasma at an affordable price. The equipment is easy to handle and safe according to all relevant regulations. The set-up allows different kinds of experiments, which can be varied in many ways, e.g. the time, and level of difficulty can be adapted to the needs and ability of the students and
Paschen curve at 4 mbar, measured with the set-up
the supervisors.
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