XI. The lag in electrical discharges

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Abstract
The variation of the “ peak ” voltage in the intermittent discharge in discharge-tubes of scrupulous cleanliness are considered, and possible causes, both in the gas and in the electrodes, are sought for and applied in explanation. Experimental results would agree with a “ corona ” lag, a theory of which is developed, if a slow “ build up ” is assumed. This assumption is shown to be justified from results obtained by a method, here described, for measuring the time of duration of a “ flash,” or condenser discharge. The small preliminary discharges often preceding a “flash” are explained on the fame assumption, due to the form of the “ corona characteristic.” Possible causes of this slow “build up” fire discussed, and it is tentatively associated with the apparently inevitable modification of the cathode surface by the filling gas.

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