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lightning

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Secondary Information

Definition

Lightning is a natural phenomenon that occurs when there is a sudden discharge of electricity between clouds or between a cloud and the ground. It is caused by the buildup of static electricity in the atmosphere.

The static electricity is created when water droplets in the clouds rub against each other. The water droplets are negatively charged, while the air around them is positively charged. This creates an imbalance of charge, which eventually leads to a lightning strike.

Lightning strikes can be very dangerous. They can travel up to 10 miles and can heat the air around them to 50,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightning can also cause fires, damage property, and even kill people.

There are a few things you can do to stay safe during a thunderstorm:

  • Go inside a building or a car.
  • Lie down in a ditch or low-lying area.
  • Do not touch anything metal.
  • Do not stand under trees.

If you are caught outside, crouch down with your feet together and your hands over your ears.

Lightning is a dangerous natural phenomenon, but by taking precautions, you can stay safe during a thunderstorm.

How can the word be used?

There was a flash of lightning and a loud clap of thunder.

lightning

Different forms of the word

Noun:

  • Lightning is a natural phenomenon that occurs when there is a sudden discharge of electricity between clouds or between a cloud and the ground.
  • Lightning is often accompanied by thunder, which is the sound of the air expanding as the electricity travels through it.
  • Lightning can be very dangerous, and it can cause fires, damage property, and even kill people.

Adjective:

  • Lightning is an adjective that describes something that is related to lightning. For example, a lightning strike is a bolt of lightning that hits the ground.
  • Lightning can also be used to describe something that is quick or sudden. For example, a lightning-fast reaction is a very quick reaction.

Verb:

  • To lightning is to strike something with lightning. For example, a lightning bolt lightning a tree.
  • To lightning can also be used to describe the process of moving very quickly. For example, the car lightning past us.

Etymology

The word "lightning" comes from the Old English word "leohting", which means "flash of light". It was first used in English in the 8th century.

The Old English word "leohting" is thought to be derived from the Proto-Germanic word *leuk-, which also means "flash of light".

Question

What do you need to do during a lightning storm?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

Explain the process of lightning formation and its role in the atmosphere. Discuss how charge separation occurs within thunderclouds and how lightning discharge happens. Provide examples of safety measures during lightning storms.

Answer:

Lightning is a powerful natural phenomenon that occurs due to the discharge of electricity within thunderclouds and between clouds and the Earth's surface. It plays a crucial role in balancing the electrical charges in the atmosphere.

The process begins with the updrafts and downdrafts within thunderclouds, which cause friction between ice crystals and water droplets. This friction results in the separation of positive and negative charges within the cloud. The negatively charged lower region of the cloud induces a positive charge on the Earth's surface below it.

When the electrical potential difference becomes strong enough, it leads to a lightning discharge. A stepped leader, consisting of a series of short electrical bursts, moves from the cloud towards the ground. Simultaneously, a streamer of positive charges rises from the ground to meet the leader. Once they connect, a lightning bolt is formed, rapidly channelling the electrical energy and creating a visible flash of light.

Safety measures during lightning storms are essential to prevent accidents. Staying indoors, away from open windows and doors, and avoiding contact with water or metal objects help reduce the risk of being struck by lightning. Also, standing under tall isolated trees, using electronic devices, and swimming should be avoided during thunderstorms.