Relativistic runaway electrons above thunderstorms

摘要: A three-dimensional Monte Carlo model of the uniform relativistic runaway electron breakdown in air presence static electric and magnetic fields is developed used to calculate distribution functions, avalanche rates direction velocity propagation. We also derive conditions required for an with a given momentum start absence field. The results are compared previously kinetic analytical models our own estimates, leading conclusion that many early overestimated by factor ∼10. simulation fluid beam middle atmosphere accelerated quasi-electrostatic following positive lightning stroke. consider case discharges which drain charge from remote regions laterally extensive (>100 km) thundercloud, using cartesian (translationally symmetric horizontal direction) two-dimensional model. Unlike cylindrically-symmetric model, this can be applied geomagnetic field arbitrary direction. In particular, we thunderstorm located at ∼45◦ latitude. cylindrically vertical axis symmetry, constrained