Change in precipitation drag due to thunderstorm electrification

Abstract

The change in drag force imparted to the air by falling precipitation particles, because of a change in velocity of the particles due to electrical force acting on them, has been calculated. Precipitation particles in both the water and ice phase have been assumed to have a size distribution with a charge distribution superimposed on it. It has been found that smaller precipitation particles, and clouds having lower precipitation rates or ice contents are more efficient in causing this change in drag force. Further, graupel pellets, because of their lower density, have been found to be more efficient than water drops in causing this change in drag force. Possible implications of the change in drag force on cloud dynamics are discussed.