Abstract
AbstractRelativistic runaway electron avalanches (RREAs) are generally accepted as a source of thunderstorms gamma ray radiation. Avalanches can multiply in the electric field via the relativistic feedback mechanism based on processes with gamma rays and positrons. This study shows that a non‐uniform electric field geometry can lead to the new RREAs multiplication mechanism—“reactor feedback,” due to the exchange of high‐energy particles between different accelerating regions within a thundercloud. A new method for the numerical simulation of RREA dynamics within heterogeneous electric field structures is proposed. Under the assumption that reactor feedback can produce a terrestrial gamma ray flash (TGF), necessary conditions for TGF occurrence in the system with the reactor feedback are derived using the developed analytical description and the numerical simulation. Observable properties of TGFs influenced by the proposed mechanism are discussed.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.