MIT Subject Evaluations

8.641- Physics of High-Energy Plasmas I
Fall 1998 Summary

Lecturer: Professor Bruno Coppi

Enrollment: 15
Number of students commenting: 7

8.641 covers the basic concepts of plasmas, with temperatures of thermonuclear interest, relevant to fusion research and astrophysics.

Students felt that the subject content of 8.641 was relevant and useful in the understanding of high energy plasma physics. Respondents were pleased that the class gave examples from both the laboratory and astrophysics. Students appeared to be divided on how they felt the course should focus: a few wanted more astronomical examples of plasmas, while others wanted more on the fusion applications of plasmas. One student mentioned that the class was not as basic as the lack of prerequisites made it appear.

Respondents stated that the symbols and notation used in the class need to be better defined, and that some of the derivations need further explanation or additional examples to make them clearer. Students also recommended that notes be handed out at the beginning, not the end, of class, and that a tentative schedule of the class be distributed on the first day. However, most students agreed that the course was a "very interesting subject", with one student exclaiming "More people should take this course!"

Most respondents felt that Prof. Coppi was a talented lecturer who excited interest in the subject. He was described as an engaging professor who gave well presented lectures that were enjoyable and fast paced. Prof. Coppi was also praised for encouraging class participation and not getting bogged down in the details of derivations in lecture. The praise is best summed up by this comment from one of his students: "Prof. Coppi was extraordinary in his teaching skills."