The universe's most common state of matter is a superheated soup

Science · Published 30 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: While we are familiar with solids, liquids, and gases, the vast majority of the visible universe exists in a fourth state: plasma. From the lightning striking the earth to the stars powering our galaxy, plasma is a high-energy state where atoms literally fall apart.

Plasma is formed when a gas is subjected to extreme heat or energy. This process is so intense that it strips electrons away from their respective atoms, creating a mixture of free electrons and positive ions. While these particles carry opposite charges, the overall substance remains electrically neutral because there are equal amounts of both. This unique composition allows plasma to conduct electricity, a property that distinguishes it from ordinary gases.

Because of its prevalence, plasma makes up over 99% of the visible universe. It is the primary substance of stars like our sun, which are essentially massive, hot balls of plasma. On Earth, we see plasma in natural phenomena like lightning and the Northern Lights, as well as in man-made technologies like neon signs, fluorescent light bulbs, and plasma screen TVs. In these devices, electrical currents heat gases—such as mercury vapor or noble gases—until they transition into plasma to emit light.

Beyond its cosmic scale, scientists are harnessing plasma for diverse practical applications. Researchers use magnetic fields to confine and heat plasma to temperatures hotter than the sun's core to pursue practical fusion energy. Other applications include manufacturing computer chips, developing rocket propulsion, cleaning the environment, destroying biological hazards, and even healing wounds. Interestingly, the term 'plasma' also describes a biological component: the liquid part of human blood, which is about 55% of total blood volume and carries essential proteins like albumin and fibrinogen.

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