The influence of surface charge on the coalescence of ice and dust particles in the mesosphere and lower thermosphere

Abstract. Agglomeration of charged ice and dust particles in the mesosphere lower thermosphere is studied using a classical electrostatic approach, which extended to capture induced polarisation surface charge. Collision outcomes are predicted whilst varying particle size, charge, dielectric constant, relative kinetic energy, collision geometry coefficient restitution. In addition Coulomb forces acting on opposite instances attraction between same sign charge discussed. These attractive governed by can be strong at very small separation distances. thermosphere, these interactions could also contribute formation stable aggregates contamination through collisions with meteoric smoke particles.