The Vlasov Kinetic Equation, Dynamics of Continuum and Turbulence

We consider a continuum of interacting particles whose evolution is governed by the Vlasov kinetic equation. An infinite sequence of equations of motion for this medium (in the Eulerian description) is derived and its general properties are explored. An important example is a collisionless gas, which exhibits irreversible behavior. Though individual particles interact via a potential, the dynamics of the continuum bears dissipative features. Applicability of the Vlasov equations to the modeling of small-scale turbulence is discussed.