Breakdown voltage of dry air compared to humid air, how much of difference?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the effect of humidity on the breakdown voltage of air at standard temperature and pressure (STP). Participants explore whether humidity influences the breakdown voltage and to what extent.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the assumption that humidity affects the breakdown voltage of air.
  • Another participant argues that humid air contains more ions, which may facilitate current flow, suggesting that this could lead to a lower breakdown voltage.
  • A specific value for the breakdown voltage of dry air is mentioned as 30kV per 2.54cm.
  • A participant references their experience with a Marx generator, stating it can achieve a maximum voltage of 55kV, which corresponds to 100kV in dry air over a certain distance.
  • A link to additional commentary on the subject is provided for further exploration.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not appear to reach a consensus on whether humidity affects the breakdown voltage of air, with differing viewpoints presented.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not clarify the assumptions regarding the conditions under which the breakdown voltage is measured or the definitions of humidity levels considered.

Agnostic
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How much will the humidity affect the breakdown voltage of air at STP.
 
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Agnostic said:
How much will the humidity affect the breakdown voltage of air at STP.
What makes you think it has any effect at all?

AM
 
Andrew Mason said:
What makes you think it has any effect at all?

AM


Common sense?

Humid air will have a much greater number of ions that can more easily facilitate a current through it.

Also, the breakdown voltage of dry air is 30kV/2.54cm.

I have a marx generator that has a maximum voltage of 55kV sparking over a distance corresponding to 100kV in dry air .
 
Agnostic said:
Common sense?

Humid air will have a much greater number of ions that can more easily facilitate a current through it.

Also, the breakdown voltage of dry air is 30kV/2.54cm.

I have a marx generator that has a maximum voltage of 55kV sparking over a distance corresponding to 100kV in dry air .
Starting here you might find some useful commentary on the subject

http://www.pupman.com/listarchives/2003/November/msg00428.html
 

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