The equation of state was originally developed for ideal gases, and proved central to the development of early molecular and atomic physics. Increasingly sophisticated equations of state have been developed to take into account molecular interactions, quantization, relativistic effects, etc.

Extreme conditions of matter are encountered both in nature and in the laboratory, for example in the centres of stars, in relativistic collisions of heavy nuclei, in inertial confinement fusion (where a temperature of 10"9" K and a pressure of up to a billion atmospheres can be achieved). A sound knowledge of the equation of state is a prerequisite for understanding processes at very high temperatures and pressures, as noted in some recent developments.

This book presents a detailed pedagogical account of the equation of state and its applications in several important and fast-growing topics in theoretical physics, chemistry and engineering.

Recent advances in the development of lasers with more energy, power, and brightness have opened up new possibilities for exciting applications. Applications of Laser-Plasma Interactions reviews the current status of high power laser applications. The book first explores the science and technology behind the ignition and burn of imploded fusion fuel, before describing novel particle accelerators. It then focuses on applications of high power x-ray sources and the development of x-ray lasers. The book also discusses how ultrahigh power lasers are used in nuclear and elementary particle physics applications as well as how the high power density of laser-plasma interactions is used to study matter under extreme conditions. The final chapters deal with femtosecond lasers, presenting applications in materials processing and nanoparticles. With contributions from a distinguished team of researchers, this work illustrates the many applications of high power lasers, highlighting their important roles in energy, biology, nanotechnology, and more.

The Interaction of High-Power Lasers with Plasmas provides a thorough self-contained discussion of the physical processes occurring in laser-plasma interactions, including a detailed review of the relevant plasma and laser physics. The book analyzes laser absorption and propagation, electron transport, and the relevant plasma waves in detail. It also discusses the physics of the electric and magnetic fields in a laser-induced plasma medium, laser-induced shock waves, rarefaction waves, heat waves, and the related hydrodynamic instabilities (Rayleigh-Taylor, Richtmyer-Meshkov, and Kelvin-Helmholtz).
A pedagogical presentation, the book addresses the basic physics issues from first principles, using simple models wherever appropriate. The coverage provides a foundation on which the graduate student can build an understanding of the past and present research in this field. For the experienced researcher, the book is a comprehensive and useful presentation of laser-plasma interactions.