Field electron emission from cathode as a possible factor in the transition from a streamer to spark discharge channel

A possible scenario of the transition from a streamer to spark discharge channel during the breakdown of narrow discharge gaps between metal electrodes is considered. It is suggested that the discharge gap bridging by a streamer may create an electric field at the cathode, which may be strong enough to induce field electron emissions that, in turn, will cause the development of processes that lead to the transition from a streamer to spark discharge channel.