The Lightning Discharge by Martin A. Uman is a comprehensive and authoritative monograph that delves into the physics of lightning. First published in 1987 and later updated in 2001, the book is widely regarded as a seminal work in the field. Uman, a leading expert in lightning research, offers a detailed examination of lightning phenomena, grounded in both theoretical analysis and experimental data.

Chapter List:

1. Introduction
2. Lightning Phenomenology
3. Cloud and Lightning Charges
4. Preliminary Breakdown
5. Stepped Leader
6. Attachment Process
7. Return Stroke
8. Dart Leader
9. Continuing Current
10. J- and K- Processes In Discharges to Ground
11. Positive Lightning
12. Upward Lightning and the Artificial Initiation of Lightning
13. Cloud Discharges
14. Lightning on Other Planets
15. Thunder

Appendix A, B, C and D. Index

📘 Overview

The book is organized primarily by the stages of the lightning discharge process, providing a logical and systematic approach to understanding this complex natural phenomenon. Each chapter focuses on a specific aspect of lightning, encompassing topics such as:

• Lightning Phenomenology: An introduction to the general characteristics and behavior of lightning.

• Cloud and Lightning Charges: Exploration of the electrical charges within clouds and their role in lightning formation.

• Stepped Leader and Attachment Process: Detailed analysis of the initial stages of lightning discharge.

• Return Stroke and Dart Leader: Examination of the main discharge and subsequent leader steps.

• Continuing Current and J- and K-Processes: Discussion of the sustained current and specific discharge processes to the ground.

• Positive Lightning and Upward Lightning: Insights into less common lightning types.

• Artificial Initiation of Lightning: Study of methods to trigger lightning artificially.

• Cloud Discharges: Investigation of discharges occurring within clouds.

• Lightning on Other Planets: Speculation and findings on extraterrestrial lightning phenomena.

• Thunder: Analysis of the acoustic effects resulting from lightning.

The book also includes appendices covering electromagnetics, statistics, experimental techniques, and a list of relevant literature, making it a valuable resource for researchers and students alike.

🧠 Educational Value

The Lightning Discharge is particularly beneficial for physicists, meteorologists, and electrical engineers. Its clear organization and thorough treatment of the subject matter make it suitable for advanced undergraduates and graduate students in related fields. The inclusion of numerous diagrams, charts, and photographs aids in visualizing complex concepts, enhancing the reader's understanding of lightning's intricate processes.