Electron avalanche

{
  "id": "MLC-T-MET-005327",
  "term": "Electron avalanche",
  "field": "Meteorology and atmospheric science",
  "definition": "A process where free electrons in a strong electric field accelerate and collide with neutral atoms or molecules, ionizing them and releasing more free electrons. These newly freed electrons then repeat the process, leading to a rapid multiplication of charge carriers. This phenomenon is a key mechanism in the initiation and propagation of lightning discharges within thunderstorms.",
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/meteorology/electron-avalanche/"
}