Pronunciation: [plˈazmə] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "plasma" is derived from its Greek origin, πλάσμα (plasma), which means "moldable substance". In English, it is pronounced as /ˈplæz.mə/, with the stress on the first syllable. The a in the second syllable is pronounced as uh, and the final vowel is a schwa sound. The IPA transcription of this word is /ˈplæz.mə/. Plasma is a state of matter that exists in ionized gases and is commonly found in stars and lightning.
Plasma is a term with multiple definitions depending on the context in which it is used. In physics, plasma refers to the fourth state of matter, distinct from solids, liquids, and gases. It is a highly ionized gas consisting of charged particles, such as positively charged ions and negatively charged electrons, present in equal numbers. Plasma is characterized by its ability to conduct electricity and respond to magnetic fields, displaying unique electromagnetic properties.
In the field of biology, plasma refers to the clear, yellowish fluid portion of blood that remains after the cells have been removed. It constitutes approximately 55% of blood volume and plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. Plasma contains proteins, electrolytes, hormones, waste products, and various other molecules necessary for maintaining homeostasis.
Furthermore, plasma can also refer to the advanced technology used in flat-screen televisions and computer monitors. Plasma display panels (PDP) consist of thousands of small cells containing electrically charged ionized gas particles. When electricity flows through these cells, they emit ultraviolet light that excites phosphors, producing the visible colors on the screen.
Overall, plasma refers to a variety of states or substances with distinct characteristics depending on its context, ranging from the ionized gas form in physics to the fluid component of blood or the technology used in flat-screen displays.
1. The fluid portion of the circulating blood, distinguished from the serum obtained after coagulation 2. The fluid portion of the lymph. 3. Protoplasm. 4. Glycerite of starch, glyceritum amyli, used as an excipient for ointments.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The colourless fluid part of the blood in which the corpuscles float; a faintly translucent chalcedony on which many ancient gems are engraved, of a grass-green or leek-green colour, sprinkled with yellow and whitish specks.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word plasma has a Greek origin. It is derived from the Greek word plásma, which means something molded or formed. In ancient Greek, the term specifically referred to a jelly-like substance that formed a clot or congealed, such as when blood clots. In the late 19th century, the term plasma was adopted by physiologists to describe the liquid component of blood, which had previously been referred to as intercellular substance. Later, the term was expanded to include the ionized gas state of matter that we now commonly associate with plasma.
