Plasma is the fourth state of matter, consisting of superheated gas with free electrons. Unlike solids, liquids, and gases, plasma is incredibly common in space, making up 99.9% of the visible universe. Stars, including our Sun, are composed mostly of plasma. This state of matter is created under extreme temperatures or strong electric currents. Plasma behaves differently from gases, as it conducts electricity and is influenced by magnetic fields. Solar flares and the solar wind, which can affect Earth’s magnetosphere and cause phenomena like the auroras, are examples of plasma activity in space.
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