Plasma

/ˈplæzmə/ noun

Definition

Plasma is a state of matter where gas is so energized that its atoms break into charged particles; it also refers to the yellowish liquid part of blood that carries cells and nutrients.

Etymology

From Greek 'plasma' meaning 'something molded or formed', from 'plassein' meaning 'to mold'. The physics sense was adopted in the 20th century, partly because the glowing gas seemed to 'carry' particles like blood plasma carries cells.

Kelly Says

Most of the visible universe—stars, lightning, neon signs—is actually plasma, not solid, liquid, or gas. The weird twist is that the same word is used for the fluid in your veins, so 'plasma' connects cosmic storms and your own bloodstream.

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