This is a good approximation for electronic circuits, but not for charged objects like clouds.You know current will flow only when the path is complete and closed.
As soon as the region around the lightning is discharged.Lightning dies after some time?
Use a lightning rod, wait for a lightning strike, and you get a high electric current flow inside. There are more dangerous ways, too.How can you tell that charges are flowing or current is flowing?
Lightning is a discharge of electricity that occurs between clouds or between a cloud and the ground. When the charge separation in a cloud becomes too great, the air acts as an insulator and cannot contain the electric potential. This causes a rapid movement of electrons, creating a channel of ionized air molecules that we see as lightning.
Air plays a crucial role in the conduction of lightning. As mentioned before, when the electric potential in a cloud becomes too great, the air between the clouds or between the cloud and the ground breaks down and becomes ionized. This allows for the flow of electricity and the formation of a lightning bolt.
No, the current flow during lightning is not constant. The initial strike of lightning contains a very high current flow, but it quickly decreases. This is due to the resistance of the air and the natural dissipation of the electric potential.
Yes, lightning can flow through objects that act as conductors. This includes metal objects such as buildings, trees, and even people. When lightning strikes an object, the current will flow through the conductor and dissipate into the ground.
The best way to protect yourself from lightning strikes is to seek shelter in a sturdy building or car. Avoid any open areas, tall objects, and bodies of water. If caught in a storm with no shelter, crouch down on the balls of your feet, keep your feet close together, and cover your ears. Do not lie down on the ground.