The characteristic that distinguishes plasmas from simply hot gases is that in a plasma, electromagnetic interactions among the particles becomes non-negligible compared to the kinetics of the particles.

I learned quite a bit about basic physics, not enough to be theoretical physicist, but enough to know how things work on basic level.

Plasma is indeed superheated gas, so it cannot be stored in containers made of physical materials - it has to be held by magnetic fields. I belive those "plasma containers" in Fallout games are just full of material that can be very easily turned into actual plasma. It's turned as it leaves the gun and most likely magnetic force pushes formed plasma projectile forward.

Also there is one significiant thing distinguishing plasma in FNV from real life equivalent - getting hit by plasma should have additional effect - electromagnetic pulse. It doesn't in NV.


There is a weapon in OWB that combines laser, plasma and electricity. It's LAER (Laser-Assisted Electrical Rifle).

The laser used by it is so hot, that it turns air it goes through into ionised gas - plasma. Plasma is a conductor for electicity - such plasma beam lasts for a blink of an eye, but it's enough to create a link between LAER and its target to put electric current though it.

I hope it's understandable; I was studying physics in different language.

I have a theoretical degree in physics.

1. Probably a low-density gass like helium
2. Nuclear POWAAA (hence microFUSION cells)
3. High amounts of heat resistant materials. This is also the reason the rate of fire is limited, so the gun doesn't melt.
Plasma hasn't been produced until the trigger gets pulled. Plasma storage would be energy inneficient and would likely melt the gun.

If you were curious, plasma can be forced in a direction via electromagnets, and that is how it is "shot" from the gun. the low-density gas makes sure the air around the gun doesn't catch on fire as well.

I hate that you killed the magic.

lol

Plasma is the forth state of matter, and can best be described as the closest matter can be to pure energy while still having mass. To transition from one state on matter to the next your either add or remove energy. Plasma is the most energetic state of matter and solids are the least. The order is Plasma&--#62;&--#62;Gas&--#62;&--#62;Liquid&--#62;&--#62;Solid.

That being said let me try to answer your questions.....

1.) I don't think that has ever been covered by the canon so I can only assume it's something readily available; Nitrogen from the air perhaps?

2.) Electricity is a form of plasma and is incredibly hot. Perhaps an electric jolt could excite the weapon's ammunition?

3.) If the substances inside the gun are not in the plasma state, then storage is not an issue. If they are then perhaps an electromagnetic barrier prevents the plasma from interacting with the weapon.

I obviously cannot account for video game logic/physics but those are my best guesses with our current technology and understanding of things.