Why Do Arcs Form in Jacobs Ladders?

[cragar]

When we see an arc between a Jacobs ladder is this because a charge density builds up between the rods and then the E field between the rods is strong enough to rip electrons off the molecules in the air and the start to conduct.

 

[Naty1]

Essentially, yes.


More here...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spark_gap

also see lightning, if interested...that involves a BIG air gap!

 

[cragar]

ok thanks for your response