Skip to main content
SpringerLink
Log in
Book cover

The Atmosphere and Ionosphere pp 201–367Cite as

Ball Lightning: A New Step in Understanding

  • Chapter
  • First Online:

Part of the book series: Physics of Earth and Space Environments ((EARTH))

Abstract

In this chapter, the results of the latest research on ball lightening (BL) are presented. The study of BL usually goes in one of three directions: (1) gathering and observing data on BL processing; (2) analysis of BL’s influence results on various objects and the modeling of this influence; and (3) creation and development of BL models. In the chapter, these three specified directions are presented. We present descriptions of 46 cases of BL affecting people and determine that the main affecting factors are an electric current passing over a body of a victim and high-frequency radio irradiation acting on the tissues of a person in close contact with BL. Fifty cases of BL occurring inside and near airplanes have allowed us to conclude that BL can be formed at high altitudes and is capable of entering planes through existing apertures or apertures made by the BL itself. The results of formation of round apertures in glass by BL have been investigated, thus leading to the experimental modeling of this phenomenon. The case of elemental structural change of glass impacted by BL is shown. Processing of photographic and video data on which traces of natural BL are shown is performed. On the basis of this work, conclusions have been made that BL possesses an uncompensated electric charge and that the leaking of this charge leads, in some cases, to the occurrence of a corona-type discharge around the BL. Theoretical and experimental analysis of a new BL model is performed. According to this model, oxidation of finely dispersed silicon occurs inside a cover of silicon oxide. We show that such a model can explain the long duration and high-energy density of BL. Results of experiments on the creation of long-lived fiery spheres are described at the erosive capillary discharge at high pressures under which the occurrence of exploding balls is shown. Computer modeling of the “Gatchina” discharge, i.e., a discharge above a surface of water was performed. It is shown that in this discharge, the heated air’s vortex rises. Insufficient understanding of the electric phenomena of BL prevents our ability to progress in the understanding of the nature of BL. In this regard, the development of some positions of an electricity theory based on the classical hydrodynamic approach, as stated in the final paragraph of this chapter, is of particular interest.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution.

Chapter
USD   29.95
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Available as PDF
  • Read on any device
  • Instant download
  • Own it forever
eBook
USD   84.99
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Available as EPUB and PDF
  • Read on any device
  • Instant download
  • Own it forever
Softcover Book
USD   109.99
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Compact, lightweight edition
  • Dispatched in 3 to 5 business days
  • Free shipping worldwide - see info
Hardcover Book
USD   109.99
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Durable hardcover edition
  • Dispatched in 3 to 5 business days
  • Free shipping worldwide - see info

Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout

Purchases are for personal use only

Learn about institutional subscriptions

References

  • Abrahamson J (2002) Ball lightning from atmospheric discharges via metal nanosphere oxidation. Philos Trans Roy Soc 360:61–88

    Google Scholar 

  • Abrahamson J, Dinniss J (2000) Ball lightning caused by oxidation of nanoparticle networks from normal lightning strikes on soil. Nature 403:519–521

    Google Scholar 

  • Abrahamson J, Bychkov AV, Bychkov VL (2002) Recently reported sightings of ball lightning. Philos Trans R Soc Lond A360:11–35

    Google Scholar 

  • Akhmanov SA (1991) Introduction. In: Akhmanov SA (ed) Modern problems of the laser physics. VINITI, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Akkuratov V (1992) This fiery, clever and cruel ball. Miracles Adventures Moscow 3:26–28

    Google Scholar 

  • Amirov AKh, Bychkov VL (1994) ANOVA of the parameters of ball lightning from the SKB data bank in correspondence to its location (indoors/outdoors). Phys Scripta 50:588–590

    Google Scholar 

  • Amirov AKh, Bychkov VL (2011) New data on observations of ball lightning. In: Proceedings of 17th Russian conference on cold transmutation of nuclei of chemical elements and ball lightning, Erzion, Moscow, pp 161–173

    Google Scholar 

  • Amirov AKh, Bychkov VL, Bobkov SE (1998a) On the dependence lifetime-diameter for ball lightning. Phys Scripta 54:13–14

    Google Scholar 

  • Amirov AKn, Bychkov VL, Bobkov SE (1998b) On the dependence lifetime- diameter for ball lightnings. Phys Scripta 58:56–60

    Google Scholar 

  • Anderson D, Tannenhill G, Pletcher P (1984) Computation hydromechanics and heat exchange. Hemisphere Publications, New York

    Google Scholar 

  • Anpilov SV, Bychkov VL, Savenkova NP, Kuz’min RN (2013) Gatchinskyi discharge modeling. In: Proceedings of 10th international conference: wave electrodynamics of conducting liquid. Long-lived plasma objects and poorly investigated forms of natural electric discharges in atmosphere, Yaroslavl, Russia, pp 250–255

    Google Scholar 

  • Atsukovsky VA (1993) General ether-dynamics. Energoatomizdat, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Atsukovsky VA (2007) Ether-dynamics basics of electromagnetism. Energoatomizdat, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Avramenko RF, Bychkov VL, Klimov AI, Sinkevich OA (eds) (1994) Ball lightning in laboratory. Khimia Publishers, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Barry JD (1980) Ball lightning and bead lightning. Plenum Publishers, New York

    Google Scholar 

  • Bastanov BG (1989) 300 practical advises. Moskovsky Rabochiy, Moscow, pp 273–274

    Google Scholar 

  • Bazelian EM, Raizer YP (2001) Physics of lightning and lightning protection. Fizmatlit, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Bazhutov YuN, Bychkov VL (eds) (2011) Proceedings of 17th Russian conference on cold transmutation of nuclei of chemical elements and ball lightning, Erzion, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Bazhutov YuN, Bychkov VL (eds) (2012) Proceedings of 18th Russian conference on cold transmutation of nuclei of chemical elements and ball lightning, Erzion, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Bazhutov YuN, Bychkov VL (eds) (2013) Proceedings of 19th Russian conference on cold transmutation of nuclei of chemical elements and ball lightning, Erzion, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Brand W (1923) Der Kugelbliz. H. Grand, Hamburg

    Google Scholar 

  • Brovetto P, Maxia V, Bussetti G (1976) On the nature of ball lightning. J Atmos Terr Phys 38:921–934

    Google Scholar 

  • Brylev GB, Gashina SB, Evteev BF, Kamaldina II (1989) Characteristics of electrically active zones in stratified clouds. Gidrometeoizdat, Leningrad

    Google Scholar 

  • Burago SG (2007) Role of etherdynamics in world cognition. MOM Kniga, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Bychkov VL (1994) Polymer ball lightning model. Phys Scripta 50:591–599

    Google Scholar 

  • Bychkov VL (2006) Ball lightning as unipolarly charged object with hot surface. In: Proceedings of the 9th International Symposium on Ball Lightning (ISBL06), Eindhoven, The Netherlands, pp 26–38

    Google Scholar 

  • Bychkov VL (2009) New observational data about ball lightning in clouds. In: Proceedings of 15th Russian conference on cold transmutation of nuclei of chemical elements and ball lightning, Erzion, Moscow, pp 139–46

    Google Scholar 

  • Bychkov VL (2010a) Artificial and natural fireballs as combustion objects. IEEE Trans Plasma Sci 38:3289–3290

    Google Scholar 

  • Bychkov VL (2010b) Ball lightning as an object with metallic powder core and oxide cover. In: Proceedings of the 11th International Symposium on Ball Lightning (ISBL10) and 4th International Symposium on Unconventional Plasmas (ISUP10), Kaliningrad, Russia, pp 34–41

    Google Scholar 

  • Bychkov VL (2012a) On hydrodynamic analogy of electromagnetic fields. In: Abstracts of 19th Russian conference on cold transmutation of nuclei of chemical elements and ball lightning, Erzion, Moscow, p 28

    Google Scholar 

  • Bychkov VL (2012b) To electrodynamic and hydrodynamic analogy. Book of abstracts AIS 2012: Atmosphere, Ionosphere, Safety. Section P: electromagnetic and optical phenomena in the atmosphere including long-lived and plasma objects, Kaliningrad, Russia, pp 30–31

    Google Scholar 

  • Bychkov VL (2013) Model of ball lightning with an oxide cover. In: Proceedings of 10th international conference: wave electrodynamics of conducting liquid. Long-lived plasma objects and poorly investigated forms of natural electric discharges in atmosphere, Yaroslavl, Russia, pp 27–34

    Google Scholar 

  • Bychkov VL, Amirov AKh (2012) Observation data of ball lightning. In: Proceedings of 18th Russian conference on cold transmutation of nuclei of chemical elements and ball lightning, Erzion, Moscow, pp 125–129

    Google Scholar 

  • Bychkov DV, Bychkov VL (2008) Ball lightning: new data of observations. In: Proceedings of 14th Russian conference on cold transmutation of nuclei of chemical elements and ball lightning, Erzion, Moscow, pp 142–151

    Google Scholar 

  • Bychkov VL, Nikitin AI (eds) (2010) Proceedings of 11th international symposium on ball lightning (ISBL-10) and 4th International Symposium on Unconventional Plasmas (ISUP-10), Kaliningrad, Russia

    Google Scholar 

  • Bychkov VL, Bychkov AV, Stadnik SA (1994) Polymer fire balls in discharge plasma. Phys Scripta 50:591–599

    Google Scholar 

  • Bychkov VL, Bychkov AV, Bychkov DV (2003) Some new observations of ball lightning. In: Proceedings of 10th Russian conference on cold transmutation of nuclei of chemical elements and ball lightning, Erzion, Moscow, pp 109–124

    Google Scholar 

  • Bychkov VL, Bychkov DV, Sedov YuB (2004a) Some new ball lightning observation data. In: Proceedings 8th International Symposium on Ball Lightning (ISBL04). National Central University Chung-li, Taiwan, 3–6 Aug 2004, pp 6–10

    Google Scholar 

  • Bychkov AV, Bychkov VL, Timofeev IB (2004b) Experimental modeling of long-lived shining formations in air on a basis of polymeric organic materials. Zhurnal Tekh Fiz 74:128–133

    Google Scholar 

  • Bychkov VL, Ershov AP, Chernikov VA (2008) Corona discharge modeling of some ball lightning features. In: Proceedings of the 10th International Symposium on Ball Lightning (ISBL08) and 3rd International Symposium on Unconventional Plasmas (ISUP08), Kaliningrad, Russia, pp 7–11

    Google Scholar 

  • Bychkov VL, Nikitin AI, Dijkhuis GC (2010) Ball lightning investigations. In: Bychkov VL, Golubkov GV, Nikitin AI (eds) The atmosphere and ionosphere. Dynamics, processes, and monitoring. Springer, Dordrecht, pp 201–373

    Google Scholar 

  • Bychkov VL, Savenkova NP, Anpilov SV, Troshiev YV (2012a) Modeling of vorticle objects created in Gatchina discharge. IEEE Trans Plasma Sci 40:3158–3161

    Google Scholar 

  • Bychkov V, Zharik G, Eisaks E, Nizovtsev V, Khodataev K (2012b) Possible ball lightning impact to a mirror. Book of abstracts AIS 2012: Atmosphere, Ionosphere, Safety. Section P: electromagnetic and optical phenomena in the atmosphere including long-lived and plasma objects, Kaliningrad, Russia, pp 8–10

    Google Scholar 

  • Bychkov VL, Zharik G, Nizovtsev VV, Orlikovsky NA, Osokin AS, Rau EI, Tatarintsev AA (2012c) On ball lightning interaction with glass. Abstracts 19-th Russian conference on cold transmutation of nuclei of chemical elements and ball lightning, Erzion, Moscow, p 30

    Google Scholar 

  • Bychkov VL, Stepanov IG, Struchalin GI (2012d) On electromechanical properties of ball lightning. Proceedings of 18th Russian conference on cold transmutation of nuclei of chemical elements and ball lightning, Erzion, Moscow, 2012, pp 130–134

    Google Scholar 

  • Chernobrov VA (2003) Chronicles of visits of UFO. Drofa, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Chirvinsky PN (1949) Ball lightning. Priroda 6:14–20

    Google Scholar 

  • Cooray V, Cooray G, Dwyer J (2011) On the possibility of phosphenes being generated by the energetic radiation from lightning flashes and thunderstorms. Phys Lett A 375:3704–3709

    Google Scholar 

  • Corum KL, Corum JF (1991) RF high voltage fire ball experiments and electro-chemical fractal clusters. Int Comm Ball Light Article Ser 1:35. 13

    Google Scholar 

  • Dijkhuis GC (2006) Site report and evaluation of Dutch ball lightning event by two digital cameras. In: Proceedings of the 9th International Symposium on Ball Lightning (ISBL06), Eindhoven, The Netherlands, pp 39–42

    Google Scholar 

  • Dikhtyar V, Jerby E (2006) Fireball ejection from a molten hot spot to air by localized microwaves. Phys Rev Lett 96:045002-1–045002-4

    Google Scholar 

  • Dmitriev MT (1967) The nature of ball lightning. Priroda (N.1):98

    Google Scholar 

  • Dmitriev MT (1969) About mechanism of stability of ball lightning. Zhur Tech Fiz 39:387–394

    Google Scholar 

  • Dmitriev MT, Bakhtin BI, Martynov VI (1981) The thermal factor of ball lightning. J Zhur Tech Fiz 51:2567–2572

    Google Scholar 

  • Dmitriev MT, Bakhtin BI, Lipatov AI (1985) Characteristics of ball lightning from results of natural observations. Academy of Medical Sciences USSR. Sisin AN (ed) SRI of General and Municipal Hygiene, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Dmitriev MT, Lakschin AM, Morozov SS (1986) Specific features of a ball lightning injury. Ortopedia travmatologia and protezirovanie 11:66–67

    Google Scholar 

  • Doe R (2013) Ball lightning: an elusive force of nature. In: Pfeifer K, Pfeifer N (eds) Forces of nature and cultural responses. Springer, Dordrecht, pp 7–26

    Google Scholar 

  • Doe RK, Keul AG, Bychkov VL (2009) An analysis of ball lightning-aircraft incidents. AGU fall meeting, 14–18 Dec 2009, San Francisco, CA, USA

    Google Scholar 

  • Donoso JM, Trueba JL, Raňada A (2006) The riddle of ball lightning. Sci World J 6:254–278

    Google Scholar 

  • Egely G (1993) Analysis of Hungarian ball lightning observations. In: Keul AG (ed) Progress in ball lightning research. Proceedings of the VIZOTUM, Salzburg, Austria

    Google Scholar 

  • Emelin SE, Pirozerski AL (2006) Some questions of power-consuming plasma-chemical ball lightning. Khim Fiz 25:83–89

    Google Scholar 

  • Emelin SE, Semenov VS, Bychkov VL, Belisheva NK, Kovshyk AP (1997) Some objects formed in the interaction of electrical discharges with metals and polymers. Tech Phys 42:269–277

    Google Scholar 

  • Emelin SE, Pirozerski AL, Vassiliev NN (2006) The dust gas fireball las a special form of the erosive discharge afterglow. In: Dijkhuis GC, Callebaut DK, Lu M (eds) Proceedings of the 9th International Symposium on Ball Lightning (ISBL-06), Eindhoven, The Netherlands, pp 51–61

    Google Scholar 

  • Emelin S, Bychkov V, Astafiev A, Kovshik A, Pirozersky A (2012) Plasma combustion nature of artificial ball lightning. IEEE Trans Plasma Sci 40:3162–3165

    Google Scholar 

  • Emelin SE, Astafiev AM, Bychkov VL, Kovshik AP, Pirozersky AL (2013) Long-lived autonomous plasma objects arising in erosive capillary discharge of high pressure. In: Proceedings of 10th international conference: wave electrodynamics of conducting liquid. Long-lived plasma objects and poorly investigated forms of natural electric discharges in atmosphere, Yaroslavl, Russia, pp 183–189

    Google Scholar 

  • Fantz U, Briefi S, Friedl R, Kammerloher M, Oswald A, Rauner D (2011) On the dependence lifetime- diameter for ball lightnings. In: Proceedings of the 30th ICPIG International Conference on Phenomena in Ionized Gases, Belfast, Northern Ireland, p 10

    Google Scholar 

  • Fantz U, Kalafat S, Friedl R, Briefi S (2013) Generation of an atmospheric plasmoid from a water discharge: an analysis of the dissipated energy. J Appl Phys 114, O43302

    Google Scholar 

  • Faye H (1890) Sur les boules de feu on globes electriques du tornado de Saint-Claude, d’apres le rapport de M. Cadanet. Compt Rend Hebd Seances Acad Sci 111

    Google Scholar 

  • Gindilis LM, Kolpakov YuK (1978) Petrazovodsk phenomenon. 6. Holes in glass http://www.astronet.ru:8101/db/msg/1169491/6_1.htm

  • Glinka NL (1973) General chemistry. Khimia, Leningrad, pp 492–496

    Google Scholar 

  • Golos UA (2012) Ukrains’ki Novyny, 24 May 2012

    Google Scholar 

  • Gorskyi VV, Nosatenko PY (2008) Mathematical modeling of thermal and mass exchange processes at aero-thermal-chemical destruction of composite heat protecting materials on silica base. Nauchnyi mir Publishers, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Greenwood NN, Ernshaw A (2008) Chemistry of elements. BINOM, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Grigoriev AI (1990) Fiery killers: enigmas and mysteries of ball lightning. Debyt, Yaroslavl

    Google Scholar 

  • Grigoriev AI (2006) Ball lightning. YarGU Publishers, Yaroslavl

    Google Scholar 

  • Grigoriev AI (ed) (2011) Proceedings of 9th international conference: wave electrodynamics of conducting liquid. Long-lived plasma objects and poorly investigated forms of natural electric discharges in atmosphere, Yaroslavl, Russia.

    Google Scholar 

  • Grigoriev AI (ed) (2013) Proceedings of 10th international conference: wave electrodynamics of conducting liquid. Long-lived plasma objects and poorly investigated forms of natural electric discharges. YarGU Publishers. Yaroslavl

    Google Scholar 

  • Grigoriev IS, Meilikhov EZ (eds) (1991) Physical data: reference book. Energoatomizdat, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Grigoriev AI, Grigorieva ID, Shiryaeva SO (1993) Observations of ball lightning and their analysis. In: Smirnov BM (ed) Plasma chemistry, vol 17. Energoatomizdat, Moscow, pp 218–249

    Google Scholar 

  • Hayashi N, Satomi H, Kajiwara T, Tanabe T (2008) Properties of ball lightning generated by a pulsed discharge on surface of an electrolyte in the atmosphere. IEEJ Trans Electr Electron Eng 3(6):731–733

    Google Scholar 

  • Herzberg G (1966) Molecular spectra and molecular structure. III. Electronic spectra and electronic structure of polyatomic molecules. NRC of Canada, Toronto

    Google Scholar 

  • Időkep (2011) http://www.idokep.hu/hirek/gombvillamot-fotozak-ball-lightning

  • Imianitov I, Tikhiy D (1980) Beyond boundary of science laws. Atomizdat, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Internet (2012) The address of a source: http://1tv.kz/print/23918. 26 June 2012, 17:16

  • ITAR-TASS (2003) Publication on August 8th 2003 (The address of the source: ITAR-TASS of the publication: on August, 8th, 2003)

    Google Scholar 

  • Ivanov MY (1998) On analogies between gasdynamic and electrodynamic models. Fizich Mysl Rossii 1:3–14

    Google Scholar 

  • Joukowski NE (1937) Complete collection of works, vol 9. Main Edition of aviation literature, Moscow-Leningrad, pp 245–260

    Google Scholar 

  • Juettner B, Noak S, Versteegh A, Fussmann G (2007) Long-living plasmoids from a water discharge at atmospheric pressure. In: Proceedings of the 28th international conference on phenomena in ionized gases, Prague, Czech Republic, pp 2229–2234

    Google Scholar 

  • Kalashnikov SG (1985) Electricity. Nauka, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Karpov IV (ed) (2010) Book of abstracts AIS 2010: atmosphere, ionosphere, safety, Kaliningrad, Russia

    Google Scholar 

  • Karpov IV (ed) (2012a) Book of abstracts AIS 2012: atmosphere, ionosphere, safety, Kaliningrad, Russia

    Google Scholar 

  • Karpov IV (ed) (2012b) Book of abstracts AIS 2012: atmosphere, ionosphere, safety. Section P: electromagnetic and optical phenomena in the atmosphere including long-lived and plasma objects, Kaliningrad, Russia

    Google Scholar 

  • Keul A (2013) The ball lightning controversy: empirical case studies, forces of nature and cultural responses. In: Pfeifer K, Pfeifer N (eds) Forces of nature and cultural responses. Springer, Dordrecht, pp 27–48

    Google Scholar 

  • Keul A, Sauseng P, Diendorfer G (2008) Ball lightning – an electromagnetic hallucination? Int J Meteorol 33:89–95

    Google Scholar 

  • Kharchenko KP (2009) Radiant energy. Radiosoft, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Kikoin IK (ed) (1974) Physical constants. Reference book. Atomizdat, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Klimov A (2013) Vortex plasmoids created by high-frequency discharges. In: Bychkov VL, Golubkov GV, Nikitin AI (eds) The atmosphere and ionosphere. Elementary processes, discharges and plasmoids. Springer, Dordrecht, p 251

    Google Scholar 

  • Kochin NE, Kibel IA, Rose NV (1963) Theoretical hydromechanics V.1. Gos. Izd. Fiz. Mat. Lit., Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Kogan-Beletskiy GI (1957) On the question of the nature of the ball lightning. Priroda 4:71–73

    Google Scholar 

  • Kogut NM, Novikov AA, Sevastyanov VV (2008) Long-lived plasma formations. In: Proceedings of the 10th International Symposium on Ball Lightning (ISBL10) and 3rd International Symposium on Unconventional Plasmas (ISUP10), Kaliningrad, Russia, pp 84–84

    Google Scholar 

  • Kolosovsky OA (1981) Investigation of ball lightning trace on the window pane. Zhurnal Tekhnicheskoy Fiziki 51:856–858

    Google Scholar 

  • Kondratiev VN (1970) Rate constants of gas phase reactions. Reference Book/Nauka, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Korezhin N (1982) Ball lightning in airplane. Tech Youth Moscow 4:38–43

    Google Scholar 

  • Lazarouk SK, Dolbik AV, Labunov VA, Borisenko VE (2006) Spherical plasmoids formed upon the combustion and explosion of nanostructured hydrated silicon. JETP Lett 84:581–584

    Google Scholar 

  • Leonov RA (1965) Enigma of ball lightning. Nauka, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Levich VG (1969) A course of theoretical physics, vol 1. Nauka, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Lihoshyorstnyh GU (1983) 138 approaches to a nature riddle. Tech Youth Moscow 3:38–43

    Google Scholar 

  • Lihoshyorstnyh GU (1994) The anomalous accidents of receptions with ball lightning. In: Avramenko RF, Bychkov VL, Klimov AI, Sinkevich OA (eds) Ball lightning in laboratory. Khimia Publishers, Moscow, pp 218–223

    Google Scholar 

  • Loitsyanski LG (1953) Mechanics of liquids and gases. Gos Izd Tekh-Teoretik Literat, Moscow-Leningrad

    Google Scholar 

  • Loitsyansky LG (1987) Mechanics of liquid and gas. Nauka, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Lowke JJ, Smith D, Nelson KE, Crompton RW, Murphy AB (2012) Birth of ball lightning. J Geophys Res 117, D19107

    Google Scholar 

  • Magnitsky NA (2011) Mathematical theory of physical vacuum. Commun Nonlinear Sci Numer Simul 16:2438–2444

    Google Scholar 

  • Mashkovich MD (1969) Electrical properties of inorganic dielectrics in microwave range. Sovetskoe Radio, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Meek JM, Craggs JD (1953) Electric breakdown of gases. Clarendon, Oxford

    Google Scholar 

  • Mendeleev DI (1958) Periodical law. AS USSR Publishers, Moscow, p 470

    Google Scholar 

  • Menzel DH (1954) Flying saucers. Harvard University Press, Cambridge

    Google Scholar 

  • Meshchanov AV, Rousseau A, Roepcke J, Ionikh JuZ, Chernysheva NV (2004) Diode laser-absorption diagnostics of NO and NO2 in gas discharge air plasma and investigation of mechanisms of their creation In: Laser investigations in St. Petersburg State University, vol 3. SPGU Publishing, St. Petersburg, pp 279–269

    Google Scholar 

  • Meshcheryakov O (2007) Ball lightning – aerosol electrochemical power source or a cloud of batteries. Nanoscale Res Lett 2(3):319

    Google Scholar 

  • Meteoweb.ru (2009) Folk meteorology. www.meteoweb.ru/uragan009.php

  • Mitkevich VF (1936) Main physics concepts. Academic Science Publishers, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Nanoscopy Method (2012) On the edge of new technology. http://www.nanoscopy.net/rus/

  • Nepomnyashyi NN (2007) The encyclopaedia of the abnormal phenomena. Veche, Moscow, p 537

    Google Scholar 

  • Nerpin SV, Chudnovskyi AF (1967) Soil physics. Nauka Publishers, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Nikitin AI (1998) An electrical capacitor as the element of the power core of ball lightning. Elec Technol Russia 4:70–85

    Google Scholar 

  • Nikitin AI (1999) The dynamic capacitor model of ball lightning. In: Proceedings of the 6th International Symposium on Ball Lightning (ISBL99), Antwerp, Belgium, pp 91–95

    Google Scholar 

  • Nikitin AI (2004) The principles of developing the ball lightning theory. J Russian Laser Res 25:169–191

    Google Scholar 

  • Nikitin AI (2006) Electrodynamical model of ball lightning. Khim Fiz 25:38–62

    Google Scholar 

  • Nikitin AI (2008) Substance of ball lightning as a certain form of unconventional plasma. Int J Unconv Electromagn Plasmas (UEP) 1:101–108

    Google Scholar 

  • Nikitin AI (2010) Small-sized and composite ball lightning. In: Proceedings of the 11th International Symposium on Ball Lightning (ISBL-10) and 4th International Symposium on Unconventional Plasmas (ISUP-10), Kaliningrad, Russia, pp 115–129

    Google Scholar 

  • Nikitin A (2012a) Small-sized and composite ball lightning. Intern J Unconv Electromagn Plasmas (UEP) 4:105–116

    Google Scholar 

  • Nikitin AI (2012b) New approach to solving of ball lightning problem – change of paradigm. Vestnik RAEN 2:19–30

    Google Scholar 

  • Nikitin AI, Bychkov VL, Nikitina TF, Velichko AM (2004) Modeling of ball lightning interaction with window panes. In: Proceedings of the 8th International Symposium on Ball Lightning (ISBL04), Chung-li, Taiwan, pp 23–31

    Google Scholar 

  • Nikitin AI, Leipunsky IO, Nikitina TF (2006a) A search for the reasons explaining hovering of ball lightning over conductor surface In: Proceedings of the 9th International Symposium on Ball Lightning (ISBL-06), Eindhoven, The Netherlands, pp 139–147

    Google Scholar 

  • Nikitin AI, Velichko AM, Vnukov AV, Nikitina TF (2006b) Estimation of ball lightning characteristics based on the analysis of its photo. In: Proceedings of the 9th International Symposium on Ball Lightning (ISBL06), Eindhoven, The Netherlands, pp 148–156

    Google Scholar 

  • Nikitin AI, Bychkov VL, Nikitina TF, Velichko AM (2006c) Modeling of interaction of ball lightning with window panes. Khim Fiz 25:98–105

    Google Scholar 

  • Nikitin AI, Velichko AM, Vnukov AV, Nikitina TF (2007) Estimation of ball lightning parameters on the base of analysis of its photo. Khim Fiz 26:80–89

    Google Scholar 

  • Nikitin AI, Nikitina TF, Velichko AM (2008) Corona discharge as a means to levitation of ball lightning. In: Proceedings of the 10th International Symposium on Ball Lightning (ISBL-08) and 3rd International Symposium on Unconventional Plasmas (ISUP-08), Kaliningrad, Russia, pp 89–98

    Google Scholar 

  • Nikitin AI, Leipunsky IO, Nikitina TF (2010a) Role of eddy currents in lifting force creating for an autonomous emitter of radio-waves. Prikladnaya Fizika 2:15–22

    Google Scholar 

  • Nikitin AI, Nikitina TF, Velichko AM (2010b) Corona discharge and levitation of ball lightning. Elektrichestvo 3:16–22

    Google Scholar 

  • Nikitin AI, Nikitina TF, Velichko (2011a) Properties of ball lightning derived from analysis of its photos. In: Proceedings of the 9th international conference on wave electro-hydrodynamics of the conducting liquid. Long-living plasma objects and insufficiently explored forms of natural electric discharges in atmosphere, Yaroslavl, Russia, pp 132–138

    Google Scholar 

  • Nikitin AI, Bychkov VL, Velichko AM, Nikitina TF, Schelkunov GP (2011b) Analysis of results of ball lightning action on window pane. Elektrichestvo 1:45–50

    Google Scholar 

  • Nikitin AI, Nikitina TF, Velichko AM (2013) Analysis of video filmed June 3, 2009 in town Dolgoprudny, Russia. In: Proceedings of 10th international conference: wave electrodynamics of conducting liquid. Long-lived plasma objects and poorly investigated forms of natural electric discharges in atmosphere, Yaroslavl, Russia, pp 149–165

    Google Scholar 

  • Paiva GS, Pavão AC, de Vasconcelos EA, Mendes O Jr, da Silva EF (2007) Production of ball-lightning-like luminous balls by electrical discharge in silicon. Phys Rev Lett 98:048501-1–048501-4

    Google Scholar 

  • Paiva GS, Ferreira JV, Bastos CC, dos Santos MVP, Pavao AC (2010) Energy density calculations for ball-lightning-like luminous silicon balls. Phys Uspekhi 53:2

    Google Scholar 

  • Parsons R (ed) (1997) ASHRAE handbook. Fundamentals. SI Edition, ASHRAE, New York

    Google Scholar 

  • Petrov YI (2009) Paradoxes of physics fundamental concepts. Librokom, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Piccoli R (2012) A statistical study of ball lightning events observed between 1994 and 2011. Lightning Strike Research Laboratory. www.labofoudre.com

  • Pokhil PF, Belyaev AF, Frolov YV et al (1972) Combustion of powder – type metals in active media. Nauka Publishers, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Polk C (2000) Biological applications of large electric fields: some history and fundamentals. IEEE Trans Plasma Sci 28:6–14

    Google Scholar 

  • Popovich MP, Samoilovich VG, Filippov YV (1971) The spectroscopic investigation of discharge in the ozonizer. In: Chemistry and physics of low-temperature plasma. MSU Publishers, Moscow, pp 97–100

    Google Scholar 

  • Raizer YP (1987) Gas discharge physics. Nauka, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Raizer YP (1992) Physics of gaseous discharge. Nauka, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Rakov VA, Uman MA (2003) Lightning: physics and effects. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge

    Google Scholar 

  • RP (2009) Weather archive in Sheremetyevo (airport), METAR. http://rp5.ru/Weather_archive_in_Sheremetyevo_(airport),_METAR

  • Ryabtsev AN, Stakhanov IP (1987) The analysis of the photographic picture of ball lightning. J Tekhnicheskoy Fiziki 57:1583–1587

    Google Scholar 

  • Safer M (2007) Nikola Tesla. Yauza EKSMO, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Sakawa Y, Sugiama K, Tanabe T, More R (2006) Fireball generation in a water discharge. Japan Soc Plasma Nucl Fusion Res 1:039–1

    Google Scholar 

  • Saveliev IV (1973) General physics course, vol 2. Nauka, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Sedunov YS (ed) (1991) Atmosphere. Reference book. Gidtometeoizdat, Leningrad

    Google Scholar 

  • Shabanov GD (2002) Optical properties of long-lived luminescent formations. Pis’ma v Zhur Tekhnich Fiziki 28:81–86

    Google Scholar 

  • Shabanov GD, Sokolovsky BY (2005) Macroscopic separation of charges in a pulsed electric discharge. Fizika plazmy 31:560–566

    Google Scholar 

  • Shabanov GD, Zherebtsov OM, Sokolovskyi BY (2006) Independent long-lived luminescent formations in open air. Experimental check of ball lightning formation by the linear lightning leader hypothesis. Khim Fiz 25:74–88

    Google Scholar 

  • Shabanov GD, Krivshich AG, Sokolovsky BY, Zherebtsov OM (2009) Interaction of equi-potential surface of charged formation with weak laser radiation. Fizika plazmy 35:665–673

    Google Scholar 

  • Shabanov GD, Krivshich AG, Zherebtsov OM, Gavrilov GE (2013) Ball lightning – its creation and some features, modeling in our experiments. In: Proceedings of 10th international conference: wave electrodynamics of conducting liquid. Long-lived plasma objects and poorly investigated forms of natural electric discharges in atmosphere, Yaroslavl, Russia, pp 216–225

    Google Scholar 

  • Shagin I, Stekolnikov IS (1960) Thunderstorm on the Black sea. Ogonyok 20:34

    Google Scholar 

  • Sharma JN, Singh K (2000) Partial differential equations for engineers and scientists. Narosha Publishing House, New Delhi

    Google Scholar 

  • Shelkunov G (2001) Ball lightning: observation and analysis of traces. Nauka i Zhizn’ 10:52–53

    Google Scholar 

  • Shelkunov GP, Nikitin AI, Bychkov VL, Nikitina TF, Velichko AM, Vasiliev AL (2008) Examination of a window pane exposed to ball lightning. In: Proceedings of the 10th International Symposium on Ball Lightning (ISBL08) and 3rd International Symposium on Unconventional Plasmas (ISUP08), Kaliningrad, Russia, pp 127–134

    Google Scholar 

  • Singer S (1971) The nature of ball lightning. Plenum Publishers, New York

    Google Scholar 

  • Smirnov BM (1978) Physics of low ionized gas. Nauka Publishers, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Smirnov BM (1988) Problem of ball lightning. Nauka, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Smirnov BM (1993) Physics of ball lightning. Phys Reports 224:151–236

    Google Scholar 

  • Smulsky II (1994) Electromagnetic and gravitation influences. VO Nauka, Novosibirsk

    Google Scholar 

  • Solntsev SS, Morozov EM (2008) Destruction of glass. Publishing House LKI, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Sommerfeld A (1954) Mechanics of deformable media. Inostrannaya Literatura Publishers, Moscow-Leningrad

    Google Scholar 

  • Sotina NB (2010) Maxwell’s equations as equations of motion of a hypothetical continuous medium. In: Proceedings of 16th Russian conference on cold transmutation of nuclei of chemical elements and ball lightning, Erzion, Moscow, pp 179–194

    Google Scholar 

  • Stakhanov IP (1996) About physical nature of ball lightning. Nauchny Mir, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Stenhoff M (1999) Ball lightning. An unsolved problem in atmospheric physics. Kluwer Academic/Plenum Publishers, New York

    Google Scholar 

  • Stepanov SI (2013) Ultrasonic probing of a plasmoid. In: Grigoriev AI (ed) Proceedings of 10th international conference: wave electrodynamics of conducting liquid. Long-lived plasma objects and poorly investigated forms of natural electric discharges in atmosphere, Yaroslavl, Russia, p 200

    Google Scholar 

  • Stephan KD, Massey N (2008) Burning molten metallic spheres: one class of ball lightning? J Atmos Solar-terr Phys 70:1589–1596

    Google Scholar 

  • Tesla N (1978) Colorado springs notes. In: Marinchich A (ed) Nolit, Beograd, Yugoslavia

    Google Scholar 

  • Thomson JJ (2004) Electricity and matter. R.Kh.D, Moscow-Izhevsk

    Google Scholar 

  • Top Story (2012) www.youtube.com/watch?v=8gsnndgpHAA

  • Troshkin OV (1994) On small disturbances of turbulent media. In: Belotserkovsky OM (ed) Collect: sketches on turbulence. Nauka, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Turner DJ (1997) The interaction of ball lightning with glass window panes. J Meteorol 22:52–64

    Google Scholar 

  • Uman MA (1969) Lightning. McGraw Hill, New York

    Google Scholar 

  • Vallander SV (1978) Lectures on hydro-aero-mechanic. Leningrad State University Publishers, Leningrad

    Google Scholar 

  • Vedeneev VI, Gurvich LV, Kondratiev VN, Medvedev VA, Frankevich EL (1962) Energy of chemical bonds ruptures. Ionization potentials and electron affinity. Reference Book, Publication, AS SSSR, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

  • Versteegh A, Behringer K, Fantz U, Fussmann G, Juettner B, Noack S (2008) Long-living plasmoids from an atmospheric water discharge. Plasma Sour Sci Technol 17:024014

    Google Scholar 

  • Vostrukhin V (1985) Exactly at 4.10 … the newspaper “Trud (Work)”, Moscow, 30 Jan 24(19471)

    Google Scholar 

  • Youtube (2007) M 109 KAWEST Beleuchtungsschiessen http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=GOq8nhIsAdc#at=47

  • Youtube 1 (2009) Storm, hurricane, hailstorm and fireball, Russia, Moscow region, city Dolgoprudny. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e5nceNOX8vE

  • Youtube 2 (2009) Thunderstorm in Dolgoprudny, Russia, Moscow region. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMQEpG1xL_A

  • Yuferov VB, Mufel EV, Tkachyov VI, Shary SV, Tkachyova TI (2011) Features of gas discharges over water surface at the atmospheric pressure. Bull Nat Tech Univ HPI Kharkov 4:103–108

    Google Scholar 

  • Zarembo LK, Krasilnikov VA (1966) Introduction to non-linear acoustics. Nauka, Moscow

    Google Scholar 

Download references

Acknowledgment

The authors acknowledge T.F. Nikitina and A.M. Velichko for assistance in the preparation of material included in this chapter.

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Faculty of Physics, Physical Department, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory 1, 119991, Moscow, Russia

    Vladimir L. Bychkov

  2. Plasma – Chemistry Laboratory, FSUE “Moscow Radiotechnical Institute of RAS”, Moscow, Russia

    Vladimir L. Bychkov

  3. Talrose Institute for Chemical Physics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky Prospekt 38, 117829, Moscow, Russia

    Anatoly I. Nikitin

Authors
  1. Vladimir L. Bychkov
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  2. Anatoly I. Nikitin
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Vladimir L. Bychkov .

Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. Faculty of Physics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia

    Vladimir L. Bychkov

  2. Semenov Institute of Chemical Physics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia

    Gennady V. Golubkov

  3. Talrose Institute for Chemical Physics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia

    Anatoly I. Nikitin

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

Copyright information

© 2014 Springer International Publishing Switzerland

About this chapter

Cite this chapter

Bychkov, V.L., Nikitin, A.I. (2014). Ball Lightning: A New Step in Understanding. In: Bychkov, V., Golubkov, G., Nikitin, A. (eds) The Atmosphere and Ionosphere. Physics of Earth and Space Environments. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-05239-7_4

Download citation

Publish with us

Policies and ethics

Search

Navigation