answersLogoWhite

0

Lighting is the atmospheric discharge of electricity. This electricity is the result of static charges that build up after being generated for reasons that are not clearly understood. Note that any simple action resulting in friction, like pulling plastic wrap off a roll or shuffling across a rug on a dry day, will generate static charges. Moving air can separate charges, and ice is thought to be involved, but the mechanism is not completely explained by science.

When charges are separated, an electrical force appears between them. This force is voltage, the electromotive force. As more charges separate, voltage builds, and at some point, this voltage will be so great that it will ionize air between the charges. Current will flow along this ionized path, and this is lightning. Moving electrons carry the current. The ionized air is superheated, and it emits an intense light. The light we see is the lightning, and the superheating of the air creates a shock wave we perceive as thunder. The bolt can pass from ground to cloud, from cloud to ground, or from cloud to cloud. Links can be found below for more information.

Lightning is a natural phenomenon of electrostatic discharge breakdown that occurs when static electricity builds up between thunderclouds or between the cloud and the earth.

If the difference in electrical potential between two points is more than 100 million volts,

it produces a plasma during discharge, causing an explosive expansion of air by heat. By dissipating, this plasma creates a flash of light and thunder.

User Avatar

Wiki User

8y ago

What else can I help you with?

Continue Learning about Earth Science
Related Questions

How often does the region experience frequent lightning storms?

The region experiences frequent lightning storms occasionally throughout the year.


How are dust storms and lightning storms similar?

they both make echos


Are tents safe in lightning storms?

Tents are not safe in lightning storms as they do not provide adequate protection from lightning strikes. It is recommended to seek shelter in a sturdy building or a designated lightning-safe structure during a lightning storm.


What are thunderstorms similar to?

lightning storms


What could lightning storms do?

Its not about what it does, it's about how it does it.


Is a car safe during lightning storms?

No, a car is generally safe during lightning storms due to its metal frame that acts as a Faraday cage, protecting occupants from lightning strikes.


Which state has the worst lightning storms?

Pennsylvania


What type of weather pattern created wildfires?

Lightning - either storms or heat lightning.


Are thunder and lightning snow storms normal?

No, thunder and lightning are typically associated with warm weather storms. Snow storms do not usually produce thunder and lightning because the conditions needed for these phenomena are different. Thunder and lightning occur when there is unstable air and strong updrafts, which are not common in snow storms.


Where does lightning occur mostly?

Lightning will show up in lightning storms. Lightning storms usually occur in summer or warm places. The bolts will travel the shortest path they can so make sure you aren't near or are the tallest object around!


Where have lightning storms occurred?

every where including my bum


What city has the most lightning strikes?

The city that excperiences the most lightning storms is Tampa, Florida.