Thermal plasma is a state of matter where gas is heated to extremely high temperatures, causing its atoms to become ionized. This means that the electrons are stripped away from the atoms, resulting in a mixture of free electrons and ions. Thermal plasma is commonly found in natural phenomena like lightning and stars, including our Sun. In practical applications, thermal plasma is used in various technologies, such as plasma cutting and welding, where it helps to melt and shape materials. It is also utilized in nuclear fusion research, aiming to replicate the processes that power the Sun and provide a potential source of clean energy.