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This study models lightning initiation through two discharge transitions: small avalanches to streamers, then streamers to a lightning seed. Elevated ion-conductivity regions in thunderclouds naturally trigger this process, leading to lightning formation without external triggers.

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Area of Science:

  • Atmospheric Physics
  • Plasma Physics
  • Electromagnetism

Background:

  • Thunderclouds exhibit high electric fields and turbulent environments.
  • Lightning initiation mechanisms are not fully understood.
  • Hydrometeor collisions are known to generate localized electric field bursts.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To propose a novel, two-stage model for lightning initiation.
  • To explain the natural formation of conductive channels in thunderclouds.
  • To identify the conditions necessary for the development of a lightning seed.

Main Methods:

  • Modeling discharge activity as a sequence of spatial scale transitions.
  • Postulating ion production centers triggered by hydrometeor collisions.
  • Analyzing the cumulative effect of ion concentration and electric field enhancement.

Main Results:

  • Elevated ion-conductivity regions (EICRs) form naturally in thunderclouds.
  • EICRs enhance local electric fields, initiating positive streamers.
  • Streamer networks evolve into conductive structures, potentially forming a lightning seed.

Conclusions:

  • Lightning initiation can occur naturally via cumulative ion production and streamer development.
  • The proposed model explains lightning formation without requiring external agents or extreme conditions.
  • The transition from streamers to a lightning seed is a critical step in the discharge process.