Electromagnetic emissions in the MHz and GHz frequency ranges driven by the streamer formation processes

Area of Science:

• Physics
• Plasma Physics
• Electromagnetism

Background:

• Streamer formation in electrical discharges is a complex phenomenon.
• Radio emissions accompanying streamers provide insights into discharge dynamics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the spectral and temporal characteristics of low-frequency (LF) and high-frequency (HF) radio emissions.
• To correlate these radio emissions with streamer formation and propagation.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive data collection on LF (MHz) and HF (GHz) radio emissions.
• Radio interferometric measurements to confirm emission origins.
• Analysis of spectral and temporal structures of radio bursts.

Main Results:

• LF radio emission (10-150 MHz) is linked to cathode streamer propagation.
• HF radio emission (1-4 GHz) is associated with anode counterstreamer travel.
• Both LF and HF radio emission power increase synchronously, with HF emissions appearing as complex, subnanosecond bursts.

Conclusions:

• Distinct radio emission frequencies are associated with different stages of streamer development.
• Synchronous power increase suggests a coupled mechanism driving both LF and HF emissions.
• HF radio emissions exhibit intricate subnanosecond temporal and spectral features.