The Modification of Joint Size-Charge Distribution in Rain. Part II: Computations Involving Partial Coalescence

Abstract

Raindrop collisional breakup is included in a model of joint size-charge distribution development. Consistent with experimental observations the model includes a finite filament (joining separating drops) that upon rupture produces charged satellite droplets. It is shown that for positive fields, large numbers of small drops carry negative charge, leading to an increasingly negative space charge with fall depth. The model also suggests that larger separated charge exists on the major drop products than previously estimated.