What is the plasma state of matter? Give examples in which matter is present in the plasma state.

The plasma state of matter is often considered the fourth state of matter, along with solid, liquid, and gas. It is a state of matter where the gas phase is energized until atomic electrons are no longer associated with any particular atomic nucleus. Plasmas are made up of positively charged ions and free electrons.

Plasmas are extremely hot and are found in places like the sun and other stars. Here on Earth, we can see natural plasma in lightning and artificial plasma in neon signs and fluorescent lights.

Here are the steps to explain it:

1. Understand the three common states of matter: Solid, liquid, and gas. These states are defined by the strength of the bonds between their particles.

2. Recognize that plasma is the fourth state of matter. It is similar to gas, but the particles are charged. This happens when enough energy is applied to a gas that its atoms become ionized, meaning they lose or gain electrons.

3. Know where to find plasma. Plasma is not common on Earth, but it is the most common state of matter in the universe. Stars, including the sun, are made of plasma. On Earth, plasma can be found in lightning, neon signs, and fluorescent lights.

4. Understand the properties of plasma. Because it is made of charged particles, plasma is highly responsive to electromagnetic fields. It also has high electrical conductivity and generates magnetic fields.

5. Examples of plasma include stars (including the sun), the aurora borealis (northern lights), lightning, neon signs, and fluorescent lights.