What is the temperature at which air becomes plasma?

In summary, the ionization energy is the energy required to remove an electron from an atom or molecule. This is measured in eV and is lower the hotter the temperature is. At 15 million degrees, oxygen is half-way ionized and the temperature is 174408K.
  • #1
thepowdertoy
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Need help here to determine correct temperature when the air turned into plasma, because there is someone in other forum (not here) insisted that a 15000000 degree Celcius flame is flame, not plasma, but I think at that temperature air must already becoming plasma.
 
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  • #3
The higher the temperature of air is the more ions it will contain. Even at room temperature there are a few ions that are mostly generated by radiation.
A candle flame contains a lot more ions. Put a burning candle into a microwave oven and you get a nice plasma ball because the flame is so conductive it absorbs most of the microwaves. What percentage of air molecules must be ionized to call it a plasma is not clearly defined. So you can't give an exact temperature at which air turns into plasma. The hotter it is the more it is ionized.
 
  • #4
But without the influence of any radiation, or electric fields, etc., using only heat as the source, still can it have a vague ionization temperature??:confused:??
 
  • #6
At 3000K oxygen dissociates significantly into neutral individual atoms. Nitrogen needs several 1000K more. Significant ionization takes a hotter temperature. But very slight ionization happens before.

You can look for the ionization energy and divide it by R (if moles, or by k if molecules) to get a temperature where oxygen is half-way ionized.
 

1. What is air ionization temperature?

Air ionization temperature is the temperature at which the air molecules become electrically charged or ionized. This is typically around 1000 degrees Celsius for pure air.

2. How does air ionization temperature affect air quality?

When air is ionized, it can have both positive and negative ions. These ions can attach to pollutants in the air, causing them to either settle out or become attracted to surfaces. This can improve air quality by removing pollutants from the air.

3. Can air ionization temperature be controlled?

Yes, air ionization temperature can be controlled by adjusting the temperature of the air. It can also be influenced by factors such as humidity, air pressure, and the presence of other gases.

4. What are the potential health effects of air ionization temperature?

At high levels, air ionization temperature can cause respiratory irritation and other health concerns. However, at lower levels, it can have beneficial effects on air quality and may even improve mood and productivity.

5. Is air ionization temperature a sustainable method for improving air quality?

Air ionization temperature can be a sustainable method for improving air quality, as it does not require the use of chemicals or other harmful substances. However, it should be used in conjunction with other air purification methods for maximum effectiveness.

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