This other paper [0] seems to indicate that TEC (total electron count) fluctuations are caused by shock waves, not rapid chemical reactions, and can arise from

This other paper [0] seems to indicate that TEC (total electron count) fluctuations are caused by shock waves, not rapid chemical reactions, and can arise from ground explosions as well. IANA ionosphere scientist, so I don't know if the parent paper made a mistake. [0] https://arxiv.org/pdf/physics/0007043.pdf https://arxiv.org/pdf/physics/0007043.pdf