Comments on the models based on the concept of runaway electrons for explaining high-energy phenomena in the terrestrial atmosphere

Abstract

We analyze models based on the concept of “runaway” electrons used for explaining terrestrial gamma flashes (TGFs), observed by orbiting gamma ray observatories and thunderstorm ground enhancements (TGEs), particle fluxes from the thunderclouds, significantly enhancing the intensity of cosmic rays detected on the earth’s surface. We show that for explaining the TGE it is not necessary to invoke the relativistic feedback discharge model (RFDM) used for the explaining of the TGF initiation.