Title | Point discharge current measurements beneath dust devils |
Publication Type | Journal Article |
Year of Publication | 2016 |
Authors | Lorenz RD, Neakrase LD, Anderson JP, R. Harrison G, Nicoll KA |
Journal | Journal of Atmospheric and Solar–Terrestrial Physics |
Volume | 150 |
Pagination | 55-60 |
Accession Number | JRN00653 |
ARIS Log Number | 335735 |
Keywords | atmospheric electricity, dust devils, meteorology |
Abstract | We document for the first time observations of point discharge currents under dust devils using a novel compact sensor deployed in summer 2016 at the USDA-ARS Jornada Experimental Range in New Mexico, USA. A consistent signature is noted in about a dozen events seen over 40 days, with a positive current ramping up towards closest approach, switching to a decaying negative current as the devil recedes. The currents, induced on a small wire about 10 cm above the ground, correlate with dust devil intensity (pressure drop) and dust loading, and reached several hundred picoAmps. |
URL | /files/bibliography/16-023.pdf |
DOI | 10.1016/j.jastp.2016.10.017 |