Sparks in Air

In progress--Brainmurphy (talk) 11:43, 4 November 2015 (EST)

The Main Idea

The phenomenon of an electric field causing air to ionize such that the air emits light and sound is known as a spark. Sparks occur between two opposing charges, where the electric field between them is strong enough to cause the air molecules to split from their normally stable state, into positive and negative ions that can conduct current.

A Mathematical Model

What are the mathematical equations that allow us to model this topic. For example [math]\displaystyle{ {\frac{d\vec{p}}{dt}}_{system} = \vec{F}_{net} }[/math] where p is the momentum of the system and F is the net force from the surroundings.

A Computational Model

How do we visualize or predict using this topic. Consider embedding some vpython code here Teach hands-on with GlowScript

Examples

Be sure to show all steps in your solution and include diagrams whenever possible