Why would lightning hit a tree?

Answer 1

When a tree is struck by lightning, the liquids inside the trunk and bark turn to gas instantly, leading to high pressure and literally explosion of anything that is between the gas and the open air. Usually, the lightning current runs just underneath the bark, down to ground, and the tree is scarred by a strip of blown-away bark. It usually survives such a strike. Sometimes, the current may run down near the center of the trunk, and then there may be little left of the tree afterwards. This is one of the reasons why it isn't safe under a tree during lightning - the exploding timber will blow away at high velocity and act like projectiles. It is also not safe to be under a tree during lightning because the high current from lightning will travel along ground radially away from the tree and lethally shock you. Also, lightning may jump from the tree being struck, to the person taking shelter there.

Answer 2

Actually, all trees attract lightning. They are tall and usually filled with moisture, thus providing a good electrical conducting path for lightning. Every day, thousands of trees are hit by lightning throughout the world.

Past studies of the kinds of trees struck are complicated. It depends on tree height, the variety of trees present, and soil conditions. Overall, the oak tree appears to be most vulnerable:

"Beware the oak; it draws the stroke."

Oaks tend to be taller than the surrounding trees, thus attracting the lightning. They also have a high moisture content, which increases their ability to conduct the surge of electricity.

When a tree is hit be lightning, most of the electrical charge moves through the outer, growing portion of the tree. This intense current can instantly vaporize sap into steam. As a result, the tree may violently split or even explode.

About half of all trees struck by lightning survive for the moment. However, they are often weakened and made susceptible to future disease.

A target tree is better off if struck after it has been thoroughly soaked by rain. Much of the electrical charge is then able to move safely down the outside surface moisture instead of through the internal tree

Answer 3

Lightning hits trees because they are tall structures that provide a direct path for the electrical discharge to reach the ground. The moisture and sap inside the tree help conduct the electricity, causing damage to the tree's internal structure.

Answer 4

It Will Set Fire And It Might Fall Over Plus If Your Gardens Big All Of The Stuff In It Ull Set Fire Too

Answer 5

Trees burn when struck by lightning, lightning is responsible for starting a lot of fires in our woods, very often though, the fire is put out by the rain often following.

Answer 6

Because they are tall and usually filled with moisture. :-)

Answer 7

because some trees are tall.