Electric Discharge in Erupting Mud

Abstract Self‐ignition during the explosive eruption of mud volcanoes can create flames that in some cases reach heights exceed hundreds meters. To study controls on electrical discharge natural mud, we performed laboratory experiments using a shock‐tube apparatus to simulate eruptions mud. We vary water content and proportions fine particles. measure electric within Faraday cage use high‐speed video camera image events. find (a) decreasing proportion particles (b) increasing each suppress number magnitude Experimentally observed volcano lightning occurs where exit from vent jet erupting