EarthRef.org Reference Database (ERR)
Development and Maintenance by the EarthRef.org Database Team

Detailed Reference Information
Verrier & Rochette 2002
Verrier, V. and Rochette, P. (2002). Estimating peak currents at ground lightning impacts using remanent magnetization. Geophysical Research Letters 29: doi: 10.1029/2002GL015207. issn: 0094-8276.

The impact of lightning is permanently recorded in struck material by a secondary magnetization called lightning induced remanent magnetization (LIRM). We introduce an original rock magnetic method based on alternating field demagnetization to define both the geometry and the intensity of the peak lightning magnetic field. It also provides positive evidence than a material has effectively been struck. On a schoolyard tree struck by lightning, we were able to locate the impact to within a few centimeters, to prove that it was a vertical negative current and to estimate a peak current intensity of 99 ¿ 7 kA. This value is 14 kA higher than the one provided by Meteorage lightning detection network and offers an independent calibration.

BACKGROUND DATA FILES

Abstract

Keywords
Geomagnetism and Paleomagnetism, Environmental magnetism, Geomagnetism and Paleomagnetism, Remagnetization, Geomagnetism and Paleomagnetism, Rock and mineral magnetism, Geomagnetism and Paleomagnetism, Instruments and techniques
Journal
Geophysical Research Letters
http://www.agu.org/journals/gl/
Publisher
American Geophysical Union
2000 Florida Avenue N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20009-1277
USA
1-202-462-6900
1-202-328-0566
service@agu.org
Click to clear formClick to return to previous pageClick to submit