Quantum, spin and QED effects in plasmas

TL;DR

This paper explores the incorporation of quantum effects such as particle dispersion, spin, and QED phenomena into plasma models, especially relevant in high-field astrophysical environments, highlighting their theoretical modeling and resulting phenomena.

Contribution

It introduces a comprehensive framework for modeling quantum effects in plasmas, extending classical descriptions to include Bohm potential, spin, and QED effects near the Schwinger critical field.

Findings

Quantum effects significantly alter plasma behavior in high-field regimes.

Models demonstrate phenomena like particle dispersion, spin interactions, and QED effects.

Potential applications in astrophysical plasma analysis.

Abstract

Plasmas are usually described using classical equations. While this is often a good approximation, where are situations when a quantum description is motivated. In this paper we will include several quantum effects, ranging from particle dispersion, which give raise to the so called Bohm potential, to spin effects, and to quantum electrodynamical effects. The later effects appears when the field strength approaches the Schwinger critical field, which may occur in for example astrophysical systems. Examples of how to model such quantum effects will be presented, and the phenomena resulting from these models will be discussed.