Step by step text solution for The earth's surface has a negative surface charge density of 10^(-9) Cm^(-2) . The potential difference of 400 kV between the top of the atmosphere and the surface results (due to low conductivity of the lower atmosphere) in a current of only 1800 A over the entire globe. If there were no mechanism of sustaining atmosphereic electric field , how much time (roughly) would be required to neutralise the earth's surface ? (This never happens in practice because there is a mechanism to replenish electric charges namely the continual thunder storms and lightning in different parts of the globe). Radius of the earth = 6.37 xx 10^(6) m. by PHYSICS experts to help you in doubts & scoring excellent marks in Class 12 exams.