About lighting strikes and sources

In summary, the conversation discusses the use of current sources over voltage sources in simulating lightning strikes. It is explained that this is due to the breakdown voltage of air and the measured current being almost equal to the short circuit current for a wide range of path resistances. The impedance of the object in the path of current flow also plays a role in determining the amount of voltage generated. A helpful link is also provided for further information.
  • #1
bottecchia
3
0
Hello everyone.

I would like to know why we simulate in programs like atp lighting strikes with current sources and not with voltage sources.

Could anyone help?

Thank you :)
 
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  • #2
No idea about lightning strike simulations, but from the electrics side:
If you put a small resistor (whatever gets hit by lightning) in series with a large resistor (all the air) and attach it to a voltage source (cloud-ground), the current through the resistors doesn't depend significantly on the resistance value, but voltage does.
 
  • #3
so why we cannot simulate the lightning strike with a voltage source?

we will have a small resistance and a high voltage so we will produce a high current between the cloud and the ground.

does anyone know what is wrong in my thoughts?
 
  • #4
bottecchia said:
so why we cannot simulate the lightning strike with a voltage source?

we will have a small resistance and a high voltage so we will produce a high current between the cloud and the ground.

does anyone know what is wrong in my thoughts?

It's represented by the equivalent of a current source because once we exceed the breakdown voltage of air to the grounding point the measured current is almost equal to the short circuit current for a wide range of path resistances (a high impedance source). The impedance of the object in the path of current flow determines the amount of voltage generated across that object as the voltage will rise to the level needed to maintain constant current.
 
  • #5
nsaspook said:
It's represented by the equivalent of a current source because once we exceed the breakdown voltage of air to the grounding point the measured current is almost equal to the short circuit current for a wide range of path resistances (a high impedance source). The impedance of the object in the path of current flow determines the amount of voltage generated across that object as the voltage will rise to the level needed to maintain constant current.

wow... thank you man you are my hero... :)
 
  • #6
Could you be more specific?

nsaspook said:
It's represented by the equivalent of a current source because once we exceed the breakdown voltage of air to the grounding point the measured current is almost equal to the short circuit current for a wide range of path resistances (a high impedance source). The impedance of the object in the path of current flow determines the amount of voltage generated across that object as the voltage will rise to the level needed to maintain constant current.
 
  • #7
mitre said:
Could you be more specific?

This mighty help.
http://www.dehn-usa.com/manager/file.asp?tableName=tblPublications&idField=publicationId&namePrefix=smImg&idValue=38 [Broken]
 
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  • #8
thanks nsaspook

nice informative link

Dave
 

1. What causes lightning strikes?

Lightning strikes are caused by a build-up of electrical charges in the atmosphere. As the negative charges accumulate at the bottom of a storm cloud and the positive charges build up on the ground, the attraction between them becomes too great and a lightning bolt is created to equalize the charges.

2. Can lightning strike in the same place twice?

Yes, lightning can strike in the same place multiple times. In fact, tall objects like trees and buildings are often struck repeatedly because they are good conductors of electricity. However, lightning can also strike in different places during the same storm.

3. What are the different types of lightning?

There are three main types of lightning: cloud-to-ground, intra-cloud, and cloud-to-cloud. Cloud-to-ground lightning is the most common and occurs when a bolt travels from a cloud to the ground. Intra-cloud lightning stays within the cloud and is less visible. Cloud-to-cloud lightning happens between two different storm clouds.

4. Are there any warning signs before a lightning strike?

There are several warning signs that lightning may be about to strike. These include dark clouds, thunder, and gusty winds. You may also notice your hair standing on end, which is a sign that positive charges are building up around you and lightning may be close.

5. How can I stay safe during a lightning storm?

The best way to stay safe during a lightning storm is to seek shelter indoors or in a car. If you are caught outside, avoid tall objects and open areas. If you are in a group, spread out to reduce the risk of multiple people being struck. It is also important to avoid water and metal objects, and to stay away from windows and doors. Remember to wait at least 30 minutes after the last lightning strike before going back outside.

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