They are formed by giant magnetic fields channelling the super-hot gas into certain directions.

BBC: African eclipse: A treat for scientists

For instance, the ultra-thin layers of graphene (a two-dimensional form of graphite) are formed by injecting liquid solutions containing carbon and silicon into an extremely hot, ionised gas (plasma) of argon.

ECONOMIST: MONITOR

While in college in 1992 he formed his first company, Vertical Addictions, which took passengers up 600 feet in a hot air balloon, attached bungee cords to their ankles and pushed them over the side.

FORBES: Attention Deficit Television