Modeling Lithospheric Radioactivity Influence on Atmospheric Electric Properties relative to Earthquakes

Ahmad Muhammad, Fatima Almaz, Fatih Kulahci

This study presents a mathematical exploration of the atmospheric electric field components resulting from radon-induced ionization, with implications in the study of earthquake phenomena. By formalizing the general solution to the proposed equations with given boundary conditions, the research offers a comparative analysis of electric parameters across different radon concentrations and radii of influence. The near-surface atmospheric electric field and electric potential are found to vary within the ranges of (1-27)V⁄m and (0.3-162) V respectively, while near-surface conductivity varies between (1-29)×10^(-14) 〖Sm〗^(-1). The study highlights the sensitivity of boundary layer conductivity to radon exhalation and discusses the indirect relationship between radon and the upper atmosphere in the context of the Global Electric Circuit (GEC) and earthquake. The behavior of radon-induced electric fields and potentials from the surface to upper atmospheric heights is analyzed, particularly in relation to seismic activity. The role of local atmospheric conditions as amplifiers or dampeners of radon's influence is also explored. The tabulated data provide reference values for real-world observations, demonstrating the dominant influence of radon on electric parameters at lower altitudes and their attenuation at ionospheric heights. The potential geophysical interplay between radon emanations and seismic activities is suggested, highlighting the need for further investigation into this complex relationship to enhance earthquake prediction.