SO why all this weird physics talk?
Experiments need nano-second or shorter pulses, this kind of arc-switch can deliver!
For fun, and to test the switch in a practical way, I am putting together a TEA laser with my spare PCB.
It will be a typical split-plate capacitor + spark-gap arrangement.
I am considering using 4-40 all-thread stock for the discharge electrodes.  All those little 'teeth' should give oodles of brushy discharges.
We will see.