Professor to Discuss Plasma & the Future of Controlled Fusion Energy

Dr. G. Samuel Lightner IV, professor and chair of physics at Westminster College, will present "What are Plasmas and Why Do We Care?" at Faculty Forum Wednesday, Feb. 1, at 11:45 a.m. in the Sebastian Mueller Theater located in the McKelvey Campus Center.

"My presentation will focus on plasmas, their applications, and my work, in conjunction with the Contemporary Physics Education Project, in developing and disseminating materials for teaching about plasma physics in introductory physics courses," Lightner said.  "Even though plasma is the most common state of matter in the universe, it is an often overlooked contemporary topic.  Examples of plasmas on Earth include lighting, florescent lights, aurora, and, of course, plasma TVs. 

"In addition plasmas are necessary in the development of controlled fusion energy, a possible future source of safe energy with an abundant fuel supply.  I conclude by sharing my experiences visiting some of the leading laboratories researching the development of fusion energy."

 Lightner, who has been with Westminster since 1970, earned his undergraduate degree from Randolph-Macon College and his Ph.D. from the University of Virginia. 

Faculty Forum, established in 1990, serves as a venue for the exchange of ideas and information among Westminster College faculty.  Speakers present their research, teaching ideas, lectures, performances, special programs, and uses of technology to keep faculty informed about the work of colleagues from many disciplines.

The event is free and open to the public.  Contact Lightner at (724) 946-7204 or e-mail lightner@westminster.edu for more information.

Dr. G. Samuel Lightner IV