In plasma synthesis, a precursor material is introduced into a plasma reactor where it is subjected to high temperatures and energetic collisions. The energy from the plasma breaks down the precursor into reactive species such as atoms, ions, and radicals. These reactive species then recombine in controlled ways to form nanoparticles or other nanostructures. The process can be fine-tuned by adjusting parameters like pressure, temperature, and the composition of the precursor gas.