摘要
The paper discusses the influence of ions on the formation of clouds, precipitation and thunderstorm electricity. Thermal ionization method is based on two core concepts： electrical micro- and macro-instability of clouds. Cloud droplets increase in sizes in the ascending air under the influence of electric micro-instability. Macro-instability is responsible for the formation of space charges in convective clouds. Artificial rainfall and discharge of space charges of clouds may be caused by means of the electrical modification techniques. The key role in these processes belongs to thermionic production of artificial light and heavy ions, which are formed as the result of applying a pyrotechnic composition of potassium-magnesium compounds. Negative ions are hydrated and adsorbed by cloud droplets leading to their growth and further rainfall. An artificial ionized channel allows to change cloud conductivity, which prevents clouds from accumulating thunderstorm electricity. Electrical methods of cloud modification can be used for the artificial induction of precipitation, prevention of natural hazards, thunderstorms, tornadoes and heavy rains.
