This work concerns the computational modelling of the dynamics of partially ionized gases, with emphasis on electrodischarge processes. Understanding gas discharges is fundamental for many processes in mechanics, manufacturing, materials science, and aerospace engineering. This second edition has been expanded to include the latest developments in the field, especially regarding the drift-diffusion model and rarefied hypersonic flow.

Physical models of gas discharge processes in gas flows and numerical simulation methods, which are used for numerical simulation of these phenomena are considered in the book. Significant attention is given to a solution of two-dimensional problems of physical mechanics of electric arc, radio-frequency, micro-wave, and optical discharges, as well as to investigation of electrodynamic structure of direct current glow discharges. Problems of modern computational magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) are considered also. Prospects of the different kinds of discharges use in aerospace applications are discussed. This book is intended for scientists and engineers concerned with physical gas dynamics, physics of the low-temperature plasma and gas discharges, and also for students and post-graduate students of physical and technical specialties of universities.

This valuable resource summarizes the past fifty years' basic research accomplishments in plasma dynamics for aerospace engineering, presenting these results in a comprehensive volume that will be an asset to any professional in the field. It offers a comprehensive review of the foundation of plasma dynamics while integrating the most recently developed modeling and simulation techniques with the theoretic physics, including the state-of-the-art numerical algorithms. Several first-ever demonstrations for innovations and incisive explanations for previously unexplained observations are included. All the necessary formulations for technical evaluation to engineering applications are derived from the first principle by statistic and quantum mechanics, and led to physics-based computational simulations for practical applications. The computer-aided procedures directly engage the reader to duplicate findings that are nearly impossible by using ground-based experimental facilities. Plasma Dynamics for Aerospace Engineering will allow readers to reach an incisive understanding of plasma physics.