# Instructor guide: Plasma regime and gain-chain map

Course: Plasma and fusion systems

Suggested time: 60–80 minutes

## Learning target

Learners classify a plasma using characteristic scales and keep nuclear, plasma, engineering, and net-electric gain definitions distinct.

## Prepare

- Review species-dependent thermal speed and gyroradius.
- Define every gain boundary.
- Prepare one case where Qplasma>1 but net electric output is negative.

## Facilitation moves

- Require species labels on kinetic scales.
- Compare scales with device size before choosing a model.
- Trace every auxiliary and conversion loss through the gain chain.

## Misconception checks

- **Hot ionized gas is automatically an ideal plasma.** Collective behavior and model validity depend on Debye shielding, collision, magnetization, and scale separation.
- **Scientific breakeven means a power station is ready.** Plasma gain excludes many driver, thermal-conversion, recirculation, and facility losses.

## Accessibility and participation

- Use ratio statements alongside logarithmic scales.
- Provide a gain-boundary flow diagram.
- Spell out species and units in every table heading.

## Evidence of learning

- A characteristic-scale table
- A justified regime classification
- A complete gain-chain distinction

## Extension

Compare electron and ion magnetization and identify the transport model each ordering supports.

## Evidence boundary

Assess the learner's reasoning only within the declared model and recorded observations. Do not upgrade a simulation result into a claim about an unmodeled physical system.