How do scientists try to alter the electrical properties of small clouds?

Scientists have explored methods to modify the electrical properties of small clouds, primarily with the practical goal of reducing the number of forest fires caused by lightning.

To influence the electrical characteristics of small cumulus clouds, researchers have utilized techniques involving the release of large quantities of ions from a long piece of wire mounted near the ground.12

While these methods have shown potential for influencing the electrical properties of smaller clouds, this approach is not considered effective for larger cloud systems. Other experimental attempts to alter the electrical nature of larger thunderstorms have involved seeding with ice nuclei or dispersing large numbers of short metal strips, with the objective of preventing the electrical charge within the clouds from concentrating to the point where a lightning stroke occurs.21