The effects of channel tortuosity on electromagnetic radiations from lightning return strokes
Abstract
The analysis of radiation form a lightning return stroke requires both channel geometry and the current waveform that propagates along the channel. Analysis and interpretation in the past have been performed with simplified channel geometries or simplified current models. A numerical solution of Maxwell's equations was developed and used to examine the impact of channel tortuosity on calculated electric field waveforms using artificial channel geometries and two different return stroke current models (compound exponential transmission line and the modified model of Lin et al.). Simultaneous channel geometries and electric field waveforms were recorded in Oklahoma and Florida. Two flashes from each location were used to compare measured electric field waveforms with calculated waveforms for reconstructed tortuous and and equivalent linear channels. It is concluded that the magnitude of the effect due to tortuosity is highly dependent upon the current model and the range of the lightning flash.
- Publication:
-
Ph.D. Thesis
- Pub Date:
- May 1982
- Bibcode:
- 1982PhDT........26L
- Keywords:
-
- Electric Fields;
- Electromagnetic Radiation;
- Lightning;
- Maxwell Equation;
- Waveforms;
- Exponents;
- Mathematical Models;
- Transmission Lines;
- Communications and Radar