An electrostatic-chemical model of ball lightning

A description of the ball lightning phenomenon is presented, and the properties of the average fireball have been determined based upon available data. Ball lightning is a spherical luminous globe which often occurs during a thunderstorm, is usually white or yellow, has a diameter of about 10 inches, lasts up to a few minutes, and can enter buldings through windows and chimneys. Special atention is given to the ball lightning model of Smirnov (1987, 1988) which includes an aerogel skeleton to provide the framework and solidity, active chemically reacting substances to produce the energy, an admixture of elements (including Na, Ca, and Ba) to produce the luminosity and color, and a charge to make the framework stable and prevent it from collapsing. (R.R.)