ON THE QUESTION OF BALL LIGHTNING

Journal Article · Sun Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1961 · Journal of Applied Physics (U.S.)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1063/1.1735954· OSTI ID:4099758

Silberg, P A

The hypothetical model of ball lightning suggested by Kapitza is considered to uncover evidence which will substantiate or contradict the theory. Reports of the phenomenon are summarized. Arguments concerning Kapitza's scheme are given. A theoretical model in an ideal environment is examined. The radio- frequency field suggested by Kapitza is considered, and the interference effects resulting from the reflection of a discrete band spectrum of linearly polarized waves from a perfect reflector are presented. The gaseous discharge is discussed, under the assumption that the ball lightning phenomenon is analogous to a point-to-plane corona discharge. It is determined that, given a sufficiently intense electric field, a horizontal discharge along one of the electric field antinodes, suggestive of horizontal lightning, can result. It is concluded that this work supports Kapitza's hypothesis, but that more must be done before the theory is fully substantiated. (auth)

• Research Organization: Melpar Inc., Watertown, Mass.
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE
• NSA Number: NSA-15-007939
• OSTI ID: 4099758
• Journal Information: Journal of Applied Physics (U.S.), Journal Name: Journal of Applied Physics (U.S.) Vol. Vol: 32; ISSN JAPIA
• Country of Publication: Country unknown/Code not available
• Language: English

Related Subjects

CORONA
ELECTRIC DISCHARGES
ELECTRIC FIELDS
PHYSICS
PLASMA
POLARIZATION
RADIO WAVES
REFLECTION
SPECTRA
SUN