AN IMPROVED MODEL FOR ATMOSPHERIC IONIZATION DUE TO DELAYED BETA RADIATION FROM A NUCLEAR EXPLOSION.
Abstract
A new model is presented for computing theoretically the ionization produced in the atmosphere by delayed beta radiation from the radioactive debris of a nuclear explosion. The model assumes that the nuclear debris can be represented by socalled 'trace particles,' the positions of which in time are described by a complex, two-dimensional, Eulerian hydrodynamic computer code (SHELL), presently in use at the Air Force Weapons Laboratory for computing the rise and expansion of nuclear fireballs. Machine plots are given for ionization calculation results computed using both the new and an older model for a sample nuclear detonation at an unspecified altitude. These results are compared qualitatively and quantitatively to determine differences in ionization due to the different models. The newer model predicts levels of ionization production extending approximately 20 percent farther into the ambient atmosphere. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1967
- Accession Number
- AD0818852
Entities
People
- L. R. Doan
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory