Some Topics in Kinetic Theory

Nonlinear instabilities as well as boundary effects in a collisionless plasmas; Stable galaxy configurations; A nonlinear energy method in the Boltzmann theory will also be introduced. Self-contained solutions to specific concrete problems. Focus on ideas but not on technical aspects. Open problems and possible future research directions will then be discussed so that students can gain a broader perspective. Prerequisite: One semester of PDE (graduate level) is required.