Lightning & Uranium: Evidence of Abundance?

In summary, the presence of electrons freed by radon in the electric field produced by thunderclouds can lead to lightning if the electric field is greater than 3 MV/m. This is more likely to occur in places with higher levels of uranium, such as Australia. However, due to Australia's dry climate, it is unlikely to have a higher rate of thunderstorms. Additionally, the use of radioactive tips on lightning conductors can help suppress high power strikes on buildings.
  • #1
damosuz
72
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We say that electrons that are freed when radioactivity of radon ionizes air molecules accelerate in the electric field E produced by thunderclouds and can thus ionize other molecules if E is greater than 3 MV/m, so that more and more free electrons are produced, which leads to lightning when there is a path of free electrons from cloud to earth.

Since radon is a product of decay of uranium, we would expect that lightning would be more frequent in parts of the world where uranium is more abundant (such as Australia), since there should be more free electrons there even when there are no clouds. Is there any evidence that this is the case?
 
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  • #2
Australia is the second driest continent, so I doubt that it has a higher than average rate of thunderstorms.
 
  • #3
Alpha and Beta particles do not penetrate air more than a few cm so their presence just above the ground is not likely to have a great effect on the density of free ions in most situations. (Gamma rays have a huge range but they are not strongly ionising). I believe they use radioactive tips on some lightning conductors to encourage the corona which suppresses high power strikes on buildings.
 

1. What is the connection between lightning and uranium?

Lightning and uranium are both sources of energy. Lightning is a natural phenomenon that produces a large amount of electricity, while uranium is a radioactive element that can be used to generate electricity in nuclear power plants.

2. How is uranium evidence of abundance?

Uranium is considered evidence of abundance because it is one of the most abundant elements on Earth. It can be found in various forms, such as uranium ore, and is widely distributed throughout the planet's crust.

3. Can lightning strike uranium deposits?

Yes, lightning can strike uranium deposits. However, the chances of this happening are very low. Uranium deposits are typically found deep underground, and lightning tends to strike taller objects, such as trees or buildings.

4. Is there a relationship between lightning and nuclear power?

There is a connection between lightning and nuclear power. In some cases, lightning strikes on nuclear power plants have caused power outages and damage to equipment. However, nuclear power plants are designed to withstand natural disasters, including lightning strikes.

5. How does uranium play a role in the production of electricity?

Uranium is used as fuel in nuclear power plants to produce electricity. When uranium atoms are split in a process called nuclear fission, a large amount of heat is generated. This heat is then used to produce steam, which turns turbines and generates electricity.

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