Such current flow creates magnetic fields which affect the structure of the plasma. The energy states and resulting structure are so complex that scientists are not able to adequately model plasma phenomena mathematically. However, we have a great deal of empirical knowledge of plasmas since they have been used in industry for over a hundred years. Arc lamps and arc welding processes create plasmas. The familiar red glow inside the glass tube of a neon light is actually a plasma at work.
Lightning is a dense stream of luminous plasma, a powerful electric discharge.
Planet Earth appears to be exchanging electric charge with surrounding space which is filled with solar plasma. Other glow discharge phenomena have been detected between the ionosphere and the center of a hurricane. Atmospheric storms may be driven by energy from the larger environment through which Earth travels. The high altitude discharge patterns shown to the right were published in a 1997 issue of Discovery magazine. They develop structure when a charge gradient produces the movement of electric current.