Lightning can leave behind intricate, tree-like patterns called "Lichtenberg figures" on the skin of individuals struck by lightning. These captivating patterns are formed due to the heat and energy released during the strike.
The Earth is struck by way of lightning around eight.6 million times an afternoon, with over three billion lightning strikes occurring annually. Most of these strikes take regions within the equatorial regions.
While lightning commonly travels from the ground to the sky, there are times of upward lightning moves originating from tall structures. These breathtaking bolts can stretch up to 60 miles into the ionosphere.
When lightning strikes sandy terrain, it can fuse sand particles into glassy tubes known as fulgurites. These unique formations can provide insights into the energy of the lightning bolt.
Rare and mysterious, ball lightning appears as glowing orbs that linger for a few seconds after a lightning strike.
A lightning bolt can tour at speeds of as much as a 13,000 miles per hour. This rapid movement contributes to the awe-inspiring appearance of lightning in the sky.
The spectacular branching patterns of lightning are a result of the bolt seeking the path of least resistance through the air. These intricate patterns showcase the dynamic forces at play during a strike.
The crackling sound of thunder accompanies lightning due to the rapid expansion of air in the bolt's path. By counting the seconds among a lightning flash and its corresponding thunder, you could estimate how far away the lightning struck.
Whilst lightning is usually visible as white, it may seem in diverse hues, inclusive of pink, blue, and pink. These colors are influenced by factors like atmospheric conditions and the gases present.
Surprisingly, some individuals have survived being struck by lightning multiple times. The odds of being struck once are already incredibly low, making these cases truly remarkable.
Lightning may be categorized as advantageous or bad, based on the path of the electrical fee waft. Effective lightning strikes, which make up the handiest five% of all lightning, are more effective and tend to strike from the tops of thunderstorms.
Lightning can strike bodies of water, consisting of oceans and lakes. These underwater lightning bolts are often mistaken for exploding underwater mines due to the water's violent response to the energy.
In ancient cultures, lightning was often associated with gods and powerful deities. Norse mythology, for instance, takes into consideration lightning to be the weapon of the god Thor.
Lightning's energy can extend beyond the bolt itself. It creates a powerful electromagnetic field that can disrupt electronic devices, and power grids, and even affect nearby biological systems.
Lightning isn't exclusive to Earth. It has been detected on different planets in our solar machine, including Jupiter, wherein severe storms produce wonderful lightning displays.