Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of electrical discharge: A "brush discharge" is a visible electrical discharge that occurs between electrodes or from a pointed conductor. It appears as a brush-like or fan-shaped glow of ionized particles, often with streamers, and is typically associated with high-voltage, low-current conditions. It is less intense than a spark or arc discharge.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The experiment demonstrated a brush discharge from the sharp tip of the rod.
  • Brush discharge is often observed in high-voltage equipment before a full spark occurs.

Advanced Usage

• As a specific phenomenon in electrostatics: The term is used technically to describe a non-uniform, silent discharge that does not completely bridge the gap between electrodes, unlike a spark.
  • The corona effect on power lines can sometimes manifest as a brush discharge.

Variants and Related Words

• Corona discharge: A related type of discharge that often appears as a glow, sometimes encompassing brush discharges as a subset or specific visual form.
• Spark discharge: A more intense, sudden discharge that fully bridges a gap with a bright flash and sound.
• Arc discharge: A sustained, high-current luminous discharge.

Synonyms

• Corona (in some technical contexts)
• Glow discharge (a broader category that may include brush-like appearances)

Related Phrases

• To produce a brush discharge: The action of causing this phenomenon.
  • The pointed electrode will produce a brush discharge at a lower voltage than a rounded one.

Noun

1. discharge between electrodes creating visible streamers of ionized particles