In an atomic gas, the motion of particles (atoms) is governed by the c

In an atomic gas, the motion of particles (atoms) is governed by the collisions. If the gas is ionized, then the motion of created particles may be mainly governed by

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gravitational force.

collisions.

scattering of particles.

electromagnetic force between the particles.

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UPSC CISF-AC-EXE – 2020

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In an atomic gas, the atoms are electrically neutral, and their motion is primarily governed by collisions between them. When the gas is ionized, atoms lose or gain electrons, becoming charged particles (ions and free electrons). These charged particles exert strong electrostatic (electromagnetic) forces on each other over relatively long distances compared to the short-range forces involved in neutral collisions. Therefore, the motion of particles in an ionized gas (plasma) is mainly governed by the long-range electromagnetic forces between these charged particles, rather than just collisions.

In a neutral atomic gas, particle motion is dominated by collisions. In an ionized gas (plasma) containing charged particles, the motion is dominated by long-range electromagnetic forces between these charges.

An ionized gas is also known as plasma, which is often considered the fourth state of matter. The collective behavior of charged particles under the influence of electromagnetic fields is a key characteristic of plasma physics. While collisions still occur in plasma, their influence on overall motion is often less dominant than the electromagnetic forces, especially in hot, tenuous plasmas.

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