The role of solid aerosol in the ionization state of the lower atmospheric layer in coastal semi-arid areas

The electrical state and physical processes in the lower atmosphere, especially in desert regions, have not been sufficiently investigated. Here we provide the ground-work for further research where the different aspects of the main sources and variations of atmospheric electric fields are considered. Under discussion are the meteorological and climatic peculiarities of coastal semi-arid areas (like the Negev desert), their specific seasonal and diurnal variations and their influence on the atmospheric ground layer ionization. Approximately 95% of coarse solid aerosol grains are charged. The mean value of total ion concentration (of both polarities) accumulated on coarse grains is ∼ 103 – 3.103 ion · cm−3, according to aerosol population. Non-symmetrical distribution leads to the occurence of a free unbalanced charge in the air volume. Such a space charge value and sign is very important not only for radio and communication engineers but also for physicians, due to the high sensitivity of biological systems, especially humans of ill health, to the atmospheric ionization state.