A STUDY OF TECHNIQUES FOR MEASURING THE CONCENTRATION OF SPACE CHARGE IN THE LOWER ATMOSPHERE
Abstract
Space charge, the net electrical charge in the atmosphere, is defined, its role in atmospheric electrical proceses is discussed, and theoretical expressions for its distribution in fair weather are derived. Possible methods, old and new, for measuring space-charge density in both fair and disturbed weather are critically examined. The development of a variety of different kinds of space-charge-measuring apparatus is described. The results obtained through use of various techniques for measuring space in both fair and disturbed weather are described. The most significant of these results appear to be the unexpected high fair-weather positive space charge of 300 elementary charges cm-3 over the summit of Mr. Withington, N. M., and the high density of 30 or more positive charges cm-3 found in fair-weather cumuli growing from this air. The development of space-charge-measuring techniques recommended for the second half of this planned two-year program is outlined
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 31, 1958
- Accession Number
- AD0243079
Entities
People
- B. Vonnegut
- C. B. Moore
Organizations
- Arthur D. Little