A Constrained Theoretical Framework for a Dusty Plasma Spheromak Model of Ball Lightning

This paper presents a novel synthesis model for ball lightning that addresses the fundamental challenges that have plagued previous theoretical approaches for centuries. We propose that the phenomenon represents a dusty plasma spheromak-a magnetically confined plasma structure containing charged silicon nanoparticles that serve as both the primary fuel source and stabilizing agent. Our framework integrates a long-lived chemical energy source through the oxidation of silicon nanoparticles within a stable, self-organized magnetic confinement structure. We provide a quantitative analysis of spheromak formation from lightning strikes via helicity injection and propose a novel stability mechanism whereby nanoparticle density gradients induce stabilizing sheared flows. The model employs a reverse energy budget methodology to derive the physical conditions required to match observed lifetimes, including formation efficiency and particle size distributions. We establish the framework's experimental testability by proposing specific spectroscopic, magnetic, and microwave signatures and analyzing their detectability with current instrumentation. This work advances beyond previous speculation by providing a self-consistent, physically grounded, and empirically falsifiable framework for understanding one of atmospheric physics' most persistent mysteries.