Descriptions of Fluids and Plasmas

Abstract

This chapter begins by introducing the simplest equations that are useful in describing high-energy-density systems (the Euler equations). It proceeds toward more complex models, introducing a range of forces and energy transport mechanisms, and ultimately treating the energy content of the electrons, ions, and radiation independently. Along the way it discusses linearization and the dimensionless analysis of differential equations. It then introduces multi-fluid models and kinetic models. The chapter includes a brief discussion of simulations. It leaves the treatment of magnetized plasmas and flows to Chap. 10 and of most aspects of radiation to Chaps. 6 through 8.