Short description of how lightning is formed
Two safety precautions during lightning and thunderstorm
Lightning is formed when there is an imbalance between the positive and negative charges within a cloud or between the cloud and the ground. This imbalance creates an electric field, causing a flow of electrons from the negatively charged areas to the positively charged areas, resulting in a discharge of electricity in the form of lightning.
Two safety precautions during lightning and thunderstorms include:
1. Seek shelter indoors: It is crucial to find a safe location, such as a building or a car, during a thunderstorm with lightning. Avoid open areas, tall objects, and bodies of water that can attract lightning. If indoors, stay away from windows, electrical appliances, and plumbing fixtures, as they can conduct electricity. If in a car, close the windows and avoid touching any metal parts.
2. Stay away from electrical devices and water sources: During a thunderstorm, avoid using electrical devices or appliances, as lightning can travel through power lines and surge into homes. Additionally, refrain from taking showers, baths, or using any water sources as lightning can travel through plumbing and cause injury.
1. Formation of Lightning:
Lightning is formed through a complex process involving the buildup and discharge of electrical energy. Here is a step-by-step description of how lightning is formed:
1. Cumulonimbus Cloud: Lightning is commonly associated with thunderstorms, particularly those with large cumulonimbus clouds. These clouds are formed due to rapidly rising warm air carrying moisture.
2. Separation of Charges: Within the cumulonimbus cloud, the turbulence causes separation of positive and negative charges. The upper regions of the cloud typically acquire a positive charge, while the lower regions become negatively charged.
3. Development of Electric Field: As the charge separation intensifies, an electric field is established between the positively charged upper region and the negatively charged lower region of the cloud.
4. Stepped Leader: A stepped leader is formed when a negatively charged channel of ionized air gradually descends from the cloud towards the ground. It is not visible to the human eye but propagates in steps of approximately 150 feet.
5. Streamers: Simultaneously, from objects on the ground, streamers of positively charged ions begin to rise towards the approaching stepped leader.
6. Path Connection: When a stepped leader and a streamer connect, a path is established for the flow of electricity between the cloud and the ground.
7. Return Stroke: Within a fraction of a second, a massive flow of electrical energy follows the path created by the connection. This flow of current is known as the return stroke and is what we perceive as lightning.
2. Safety Precautions during Lightning and Thunderstorm:
1. Seek Shelter: The most important safety precaution during a thunderstorm is to seek shelter indoors or in a substantial building. Avoid open spaces, tall objects, isolated trees, and bodies of water, as they can attract lightning.
2. Stay Away from Electrical Appliances: Do not use electrical appliances, such as phones, computers, or power tools, during a thunderstorm. Lightning strikes could cause power surges that could potentially damage devices or injure individuals.
Remember, thunderstorms, and lightning can be dangerous, and it's crucial to prioritize personal safety by following these precautions.