What is corona in the context of electrical conductors?

In the context of electrical conductors, corona refers specifically to a phenomenon where ionization occurs around a conductor, allowing electrons (and ions) to escape into the surrounding air. This occurs when the electric field strength around the conductor surpasses a certain threshold, leading to the surrounding air molecules becoming ionized. This ionization creates a visible glow and can characterize the corona discharge, which often appears as a bluish halo in high-voltage applications.

This phenomenon is particularly relevant in high-voltage power lines, as it can lead to energy losses and impact the efficiency of the system. Understanding corona is essential for linemen, as they need to be aware of its effects to mitigate risks and prevent performance issues associated with electrical transmission systems.