Electrical breakdown in air in the presence of a single charge

  • #1
abdossamad2003
68
4
Suppose there is an electric charge of 350 micro coulombs in space. The electric field at a distance of less than one meter will be more than 3,000,000 volts/meter considering that this field is greater than the electric breakdown of air and the charge has no place to discharge, what happens? Will the electric charge be light?
 
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  • #2
Is it in air, or is it in space?
If it is in space, the electrons will repel, becoming an expanding volume of charge, not a point.
If it is in air, the molecules of air will be repelled to achieve the same, taking slightly longer.
 
  • #3
Given that the electric field is greater than the breakdown of air, will no spark appear?
 
  • #4
abdossamad2003 said:
Given that the electric field is greater than the breakdown of air, will no spark appear?
That will depend on how the hypothetical single point of charge was established.

There will be a momentary ball of plasma that will expand. The plasma will cool as the initial energy is radiated. Since air molecules stripped of electrons are positive, they will remain mixed with the negative electron cloud. That may remain stable during the cooling period.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ball_lightning
 

1. What is electrical breakdown in air?

Electrical breakdown in air is a phenomenon where the insulating properties of air are overcome by the presence of a high electric field, leading to the sudden flow of current through the air.

2. What factors influence electrical breakdown in air?

The main factors that influence electrical breakdown in air include the strength of the electric field, the distance between the charged object and the air, the presence of impurities in the air, and the humidity levels.

3. How does a single charge affect electrical breakdown in air?

A single charge can create an electric field around itself, which can lead to the ionization of air molecules in its vicinity. This ionization can reduce the breakdown voltage of the air, making it easier for electrical breakdown to occur.

4. What are some applications of studying electrical breakdown in air in the presence of a single charge?

Understanding electrical breakdown in air is important for designing high voltage equipment, lightning protection systems, and electronic devices. It also helps in predicting and preventing electrical breakdown in various industrial and environmental settings.

5. How can electrical breakdown in air be prevented?

Electrical breakdown in air can be prevented by using insulating materials, maintaining proper distances between charged objects and air, controlling humidity levels, and minimizing the presence of impurities in the air. Additionally, using surge protectors and grounding systems can help protect against electrical breakdown.

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