Simulating Underwater Leader Growth

ORAL

Abstract

Dielectric breakdown in water is always preceded by the growth of leaders. The structure and growth of these leaders have been previously simulated with fractals; however, present mathematical models are rife with undesired parameters. We eliminate many of these parameters with a physical model that describes a leader as a protonic mobility wave. Graphical-simulation results will be presented and compared with photographic data.

Authors

  • Lee Culver

  • Gary Hunter

  • James Espinosa

    University of West Georgia