Wind tunnel investigation of the distortion of polluted water drops in the horizontal electric fields

TitleWind tunnel investigation of the distortion of polluted water drops in the horizontal electric fields
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2009
AuthorsBhalwankar, RV, Kamra, AK
JournalJournal of Geophysical Research-Atmospheres
Volume114
PaginationD10205
Date PublishedMAY
ISSN2169-897X
Abstract

Distortion of the water drops freely suspended in a vertical wind tunnel is investigated when these drops are polluted with sulphate/nitrate salt and are also subjected to the horizontal electric fields. Results show that although the drops' average shape is not significantly affected, the magnitudes of drop oscillations decrease when these are formed from the water polluted with sulphate/nitrate salt. However, when these polluted drops are placed in a horizontal electric field, their oblateness increases with respect to that of the distilled water drops, and this increase in oblateness is more in higher electric fields. Results can possibly be explained because of the increase in surface tension, viscosity and density, and a more dominant effect due to the increase in electrical conductivity of the polluted water. Significance of the results is discussed in view of the possible modification of lightning activity in clouds formed over big cities.

DOI10.1029/2008JD011102
Type of Journal (Indian or Foreign)Foreign
Impact Factor (IF)3.303
Divison category: 
Polymer Science & Engineering