15 Scientific Theories About Ball Lightning: The 8th Will Revolutionize Your Understanding

11. The Aerosol Combustion Theory

advertisement

According to the aerosol combustion theory, ball lightning results from a special combustion process including air aerosols. This theory holds that a lightning strike or other high-energy event might set off the ignition of a cloud of small particles suspended in the air, perhaps dust, pollutants, or even microscopic meteoritic debris. According to the hypothesis, these particles can slow, steady combustion under some circumstances, producing a blazing sphere we interpret as ball lightning. This hypothesis, according to supporters, clarifies several observed traits of ball lightning, including its varying length, color variations, and sporadic reports of residue left behind following the event dissipating. The observed capacity of ball lightning to travel through small apertures is also explained by the aerosol combustion theory since the combustible aerosol cloud might perhaps squeeze through gaps. Moreover, this hypothesis provides a justification for the sporadic explosive dissipation of ball lightning, which can arise in case the combustion accelerates. Critics of the aerosol combustion theory note the difficulties in describing how such a combustion process might keep a spherical form and travel against the wind. Supporters point to laboratory studies, however, that show long-lasting, bright events resulting from the burning of different aerosol combinations. With possible uses in domains including air pollution management, fire safety, and new energy technologies, the aerosol combustion theory has not only helped ball lightning research but also motivated new inquiries into atmospheric chemistry and improved combustion processes.

Next Page