Numerical simulation of narrow bipolar electromagnetic pulses generated by thunderstorm discharges
- All-Russia Research Institute of Experimental Physics, Russian Federal Nuclear Center (Russian Federation)
Using the concept of avalanche relativistic runaway electrons (REs), we perform numerical simulations of compact intracloud discharge (CID) as a generator of powerful natural electromagnetic pulses (EMPs) in the HF-VHF range, called narrow bipolar pulses (NBPs). For several values of the field overvoltage and altitude at which the discharge develops, the numbers of seed electrons initiating the avalanche are evaluated, with which the calculated EMP characteristics are consistent with the measured NBP parameters. We note shortcomings in the hypothesis assuming participation of cosmic ray air showers in avalanche initiation. The discharge capable of generating NBPs produces REs in numbers close to those in the source of terrestrial {gamma}-ray flashes (TGFs), which can be an argument in favor of a unified NBP and TGF source.
- OSTI ID:
- 22210569
- Journal Information:
- Journal of Experimental and Theoretical Physics, Vol. 117, Issue 1; Other Information: Copyright (c) 2013 Pleiades Publishing, Ltd.; http://www.springer-ny.com; Country of input: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA); ISSN 1063-7761
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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