brush discharge

noun

, Electricity.

a type of corona discharge that takes place between two electrodes at atmospheric pressure, characterized by long, branched, luminous streamers of ionized particles.

brush discharge

a slightly luminous electrical discharge between points of high charge density when the charge density is insufficient to cause a spark or around sharp points on a highly charged conductor because of ionization of air molecules in their vicinity

First recorded in 1840–50

In the latter case a brush discharge is used, and the patient experiences very little physical sensation.

It is, in fact, the equivalent in nature of the brush discharge from an electric machine.

The plates are placed in a vessel full of insulating oil which prevents the glow or brush discharge taking place over their edges.

This is caused by the electricity escaping into the air from the point of the needle, and is known as the “brush discharge.”

There is still another and far more striking peculiarity of the brush discharge produced by very rapidly alternating currents.

April 18, 2024petrichor

[pet-ri-kawr]

Start each day with the Word of the Day in your inbox!

By clicking "Sign Up", you are accepting Dictionary.com Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policies.

Browse