An instrument built to study cosmic rays has turned out to be a powerful tool for investigating thunderstorms. Earlier observations with the GRAPES-3 muon telescope revealed that thunderclouds can develop electrical potential differences far greater than those ever measured directly. But they also uncovered a puzzle: the instrument detected many more thunderstorm events in the eastern part of its field of view than in the western part. A new study by the same team, published in the Journal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics, has now explained why.
Cosmic-ray particles enhance understanding of thunderstorm electric fields
A study using the GRAPES-3 muon telescope has revealed significant electrical potential differences in thunderstorms, with a notable discrepancy in event detection between eastern and western regions. The research team aims to understand these phenomena better, which could have implications for atmospheric studies. This research is relevant for Iran as it enhances understanding of natural phenomena that can impact weather patterns and safety.
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