[Tetrahedrite]

I would like to know what the standard definition of a plasma is? I know it is an ionised gas but how do these things exist and how are they formed? Does a standard flame (such as a gas flame) have any plasma like properties?
If anyone can answer any of these questions I would be very grateful,

Thanks from Australia

[Mitch]

http://66.102.7.104/search?q=cache:nWYakFe8IIYJ:www.cee.vt.edu/program_areas/environmental/teach/smprimer/icp/icp.html+icp+schematic&hl=en