Mathematical Plasma Physics

Dear Colleagues,

Plasma physics has a deep and wide pool of mathematical problems. Answers to many of these are still awaiting and can greatly impact fusion research. Theory and applications of plasma physics have always benefited from various methods of mathematical physics, and not rarely vice versa. The interchange between the two disciplines has recently seen a renascence with increasing interest from both sides and compelling results on solid ground.

The developing field of mathematical plasma physics spans various areas, from dynamical systems and Hamiltonian geometry to partial differential equations and optimization, that run plasma physics. More specifically, it involves chaos theory, symmetry methods, normal forms, presymplectic mechanics, invariant submanifolds, stability analysis, Poisson operators, variational techniques, and stochasticity, among others. The main scope of the diverse mathematical framework is controlled fusion with all its challenges. As such, the ultimate goal is to give decisive answers to open theoretical questions on plasma confinement and to build rigorous computational objectives for the optimal design and performance of fusion reactors.

In this Special Issue, we aim to present recent developments in mathematical plasma physics with an emphasis on magnetic field line flow, guiding-centre dynamics, magnetohydrodynamic equilibria, gyrokinetics, magnetic coil geometry, and divertors.

Dr. Nikos Kallinikos
Guest Editor

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