Quantum effects in plasmas

TL;DR

This paper reviews the significance of quantum effects in plasmas, especially in dense states like warm dense matter and inertial fusion, and discusses theoretical methods for their simulation.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of quantum effects in plasmas and introduces a combined first-principles approach for predictive modeling.

Findings

Quantum effects are significant in warm dense matter and inertial fusion plasmas.

Various theoretical quantum methods are available for dense plasma modeling.

A downfolding approach based on first principles enhances predictive capabilities.

Abstract

The year 2025 had been designated by UNESCO as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. 125 years ago Max Planck's discovery of radiation quanta started the quantum era and 100 years ago quantum mechanics was discovered by Schroedinger, Heisenberg, Bohr, Pauli, Dirac, Born, Fermi and many others. By now, quantum mechanics is the theoretical foundation of most fields of physics and chemistry, and it is the basis for modern nanotechnology. How about plasma physics? How important are quantum effects in plasmas? In what experiments quantum effects are observed and where do they govern the behavior of plasmas? How can these effects be treated theoretically and via computer simulations? Starting with a brief historical overview we discuss the broad parameter range that is characteristic for plasmas and outline where quantum effects are relevant. This is the case primarily for warm dense matter and inertial fusion plasmas. We provide an overview on the theoretical quantum methods that are available for these dense plasmas and how their respective advantages can be combined in order to achieve predictive capability. The key is a downfolding approach that is based on first principles simulations.