SUMMARY
The discussion centers on the feasibility of sustaining electron avalanches similar to lightning bolts using extremely high voltage AC current. It highlights that man-made electrical discharges are shorter and more chaotic compared to natural lightning due to differences in electric field divergence. Current research is ongoing in this area, with references to a recent article in SiAm that suggests high energy cosmic rays may significantly influence lightning formation.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of high voltage AC current principles
- Knowledge of electron avalanche phenomena
- Familiarity with atmospheric electricity and lightning formation
- Research skills to locate and analyze scientific articles
NEXT STEPS
- Read the article in SiAm regarding the role of cosmic rays in lightning
- Explore the principles of high voltage AC current applications
- Investigate the differences between man-made electrical discharges and natural lightning
- Study the physics of electron avalanches in various environments
USEFUL FOR
Researchers in atmospheric science, electrical engineers, and physicists interested in the mechanisms of lightning and high voltage phenomena.