PHYSICS OF EARTH, ATMOSPHERE, AND HYDROSPHERE On the Existence of a Global Electric Circuit in the Atmosphere of Mars

The principal criteria for the formation and preservation of a global electric circuit (GEC) in the atmospheres of planets of the Solar System are analyzed. The conductivity profile of the Martian atmosphere is estimated from first principles and the possibility of existence of a GEC on Mars is considered. The pro� posed model suggests that no stationary GEC is present on Mars, but current may flow along a circuit when a highpower and extensive generator is in operatio n (for example, in the course of a dust storm).