This book discusses the basic principles of the theory of kinetic processes in molecular gases and low-temperature plasmas, including plasma-surface interaction. Emphasis is placed on the analysis of translational, rotational, vibrational and electronically excited state kinetics, coupled to the electron Boltzmann equation. Numerous data for molecular parameters, cross sections and rate coefficients for different relaxation processes are provided. These data are used to model and interpret the non-equilibrium phenomena in nitrogen, oxygen and their mixtures under different plasma conditions (gas discharges, ionosphere, space reentry, sound and shock wave propagation). This book will be very useful to all scientists and graduate students interested in plasma physics, plasma chemistry, physics of the ionosphere, chemistry and optics of the atmosphere, non-equilibrium aerodynamics and physical-chemical kinetics.

Emphasis is placed on the analysis of translational, rotational, vibrational and electronically excited state kinetics, coupled to the electron Boltzmann equation.

1. Translational Relaxation of Heavy Particles.- 2. Rotational Relaxation of Molecules.- 3. Vibrational Relaxation of Molecules.- 4. Kinetics of Free Electrons.- 5. Energetic and Spectroscopic Parameters of Atmospheric Species.- 6. Rates of Translational and Rotational Relaxation.- 7. Rate Coefficients for Vibrational Relaxation.- 8. Electron Rate Coefficients.- 9. Electronic State Relaxation Rates.- 10. Rate Coefficients of Chemical Reactions.- 11. Interactions of Gas Phase Species with Surfaces.- 12. Discharges in Pure N2 and O2.- 13. Discharges in N2-O2 Mixtures.- 14. Kinetic Processes in the Ionosphere.- 15. Interaction of Space Vehicles with Atmospheric Gases.- 16. Acoustic and Shock Waves in Non-equilibrium Gases.