The physics of thunderstorms

The physics of a thunderstorm is studied from the viewpoint of hydromechanics rather than thermodynamics, although the latter processes have not been entirely disregarded. The basic type of thunderstorm herein considered is the case in which the flow phenomena are similar to those existing in connection with two reservoirs with different pressures. The treatment of the various processes involved in a thunderstorm is mainly quantitative. Equations are developed based on the laws of continuity and fluid flow, from which the dimensions and characteristics of a thunderstorm can be determined. Questions involving the limitation of rainfall splash, maximum limiting rain intensity of the thunderstorm, and the derivation of the characteristics of a thunderstorm, based on study of the rainfall pattern, are considered. The various hydrological factors involved in a thunderstorm, such as condensation, evaporation, expansion, and lift are discussed.