Proof of Cloud Instability with Respect to the Formation of Several Horizontal Space Charge Layers

The origin of the multiple horizontal charge layers observed in the trailing stratiform region of mesoscale convective systems is explained for the first time on the basis of energy considerations and stability calculations. The latter indicate the presence of a cloud-instability with respect to formation of horizontal polarization layers and associated space charge layers. The author's polarization catastrophe theory of atmospheric electricity has inspired these calculations. This is consistent with the author's earlier derivation of charges in thunderclouds, in growing stratus clouds, in dissipating stratus clouds, an in the Cring of the planet Saturn. INTRODUCTION For the first time we present rigorous proof of the instability of clouds containing small ice crystals, or sufficiently small H2O aggregates in general, to the spontaneous formation of several horizontal polarization layers and space charge layers. Our investigation was inspired by the balloon observations (Fig. 1) of many horizontal space charge layers in Fig. 1: Horizontal space charge layers found in MCS stratiform regions, typical curve. Electric Field (kV/m) Height (km MSL)