Experimental Detection of Convective Thundercloud Formation

Lightning is a transient high current electrical discharge often observed in nature. It is caused by very large clouds (Cumulonimbus (Cb)) and is linked to such cloud formation. This book details the results obtained in a scientific investigation to detect the possible convective Cb formation over a region where lightning incidences are relatively high. Available data were analyzed; a hypothesis proposed and carried out investigation on conditions for the formation of thunderclouds. Pressure charts and vertical measurements by radiosonde are normally used to detect instabilities leading to cloud formation, especially the Cbs. The present study utilized mainly primary data from ground based equipment to detect and understand the formation of thunderclouds over the study region. Investigations conducted at a high altitude mountain field station throws light on various stages of the Cb formation, its electrical characteristics and growth during the traverse and thereby revealing the cause of high lightning occurrence in the tropical environs.

Autorentext

Dr. R. Vishnu is a post doctoral researcher working with the Atmospheric Sciences Division of the Centre for Earth Science Studies (CESS), Thiruvananthapuram, India. He took his masters and Ph. D. in Physics from the University of Kerala. His research interests are experimental observation of atmospheric parameters and Physics of lightning.