Microstructure of a spark discharge in air in a point–plane gap

A microchannel structure of a spark discharge initiated in atmospheric-pressure air in a point–plane gap has been discovered by shadow photography. The structure has been observed since the onset of the discharge glow. The evolution of the microstructure over times from several nanoseconds to several tens of nanoseconds has been traced. Specifically, the development of microchannels from the point into the discharge gap, expansion of the microchannels, and their interaction have been observed. A correlation has been found between the microstructure of the spark channel in the discharge gap and its autograph on the surface of the plane electrode.