The 40th Ockham Lecture - 'Creating and Controlling Beams in Plasmas'

To be given by Professor Tünde Fülöp  Visiting Research Fellow, Merton College; Full Professor of Physics & Head of Plasma Theory Group, Division of Subatomic, High-Energy and Plasma Physics, Department of Physics, Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg, Sweden; Member of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences and the European Academy of Sciences Alfven Prize, 2024

Abstract

Electron acceleration and its associated radiation in plasmas has fascinated humankind with its beauty for centuries. It occurs in such diverse phenomena as laser-produced plasmas, electrical discharges associated with thunderstorms, aurorae in planetary magnetospheres, solar flares and fusion plasmas. However, the natural beauty of the observable signatures of these processes is not the only reason we are interested in them. Understanding their causes, characteristics and consequences has practical importance in several fields, ranging from energy generation to protection against solar storms. In this lecture, I will describe examples of relativistic electron beams in laboratory plasmas, as well as strategies for how to create and control them.

The Ockham Lecture Series

The Merton College Physics Lecture (the Ockham, or Occam, Lecture, so named in honour of one of the greatest—if unattested—alumni of the College and of his philosophical principle of intellectual discipline) started in 2009 and is held once a term. It is organised by the physics tutors of the College to promote both intellectual curiosity and social cohesion of the Merton Physics community.

Attendance is by invitation: All Merton physicists (and sympathisers) belonging to the three Common Rooms (JCR, MCR and SCR) are invited, as are the Old Members. Their guests are also accommodated, space permitting. To sign up, please visit the Ockham Lecture Facebook page.