A new proposal for calculation of the leader velocity based on energy considerations

In this paper, we present and discuss a relationship between the leader current, the electrical charge, the velocity and the mode of propagation of the leader. By using energy considerations, we establish a mathematical expression that requires only physical parameters and allows one to evaluate the velocity of the leader or the fractional part beta of the energy consumed during propagation of the leader. The obtained value of beta gives leader velocities in good accordance in shape and amplitude with those measured experimentally for discharges in long air gaps.