Propagation effects of a fractal rough ocean surface on the vertical electric field generated by lightning return strokes

Based on an improved two-dimension (2D) fractal model of rough ocean surface, the propagation effects of the rough ocean surface on the vertical electric fields generated by lightning return strokes are analyzed. The results show that the rough ocean surface has much effect on the electric field derivatives, but has no or little effect on the field peaks. The frequency above 10 MHz is attenuated significantly by the rough ocean surface, and the rapid attenuation of frequency above 10 MHz in the experimentally obtained spectrum may be taken into account the errors introduced by the roughness of the ocean surface.

► The rough ocean surface is simulated by using an improved 2D fractal model.
► Propagation effects of the rough ocean on the lightning electric fields are analyzed.
► Effect of the rough ocean on the electric field derivative is much more significant.
► The frequency above 10 MHz is attenuated significantly by the rough ocean.