Point discharge

{
  "id": "MLC-T-MET-007996",
  "term": "Point discharge",
  "field": "Meteorology and atmospheric science",
  "definition": "The continuous leakage of electric charge from pointed objects, such as trees, antennas, or lightning rods, into the atmosphere when the ambient electric field is sufficiently strong. This phenomenon occurs when the electric field concentrates at sharp points, ionizing the surrounding air. It is a precursor to lightning and can be observed as a faint glow called St. Elmo's Fire.",
  "see_also": [
    "corona discharge",
    "spark discharge"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/meteorology/point-discharge/"
}