Whats the acceleration of an electron in lightning?

AI Thread Summary
The equation a=qE/m is used to calculate the acceleration of an electron, with variables like electric field strength being relevant for lightning. The discussion raises curiosity about the Unruh effect and its potential impact on temperature changes in lightning. There is confusion regarding the implications of relativity, particularly how some calculations suggest accelerations that exceed the speed of light despite the theory's constraints. The conversation highlights the complexities of particle physics in extreme conditions like lightning. Overall, the interaction of electric fields and relativistic effects in lightning remains a topic of interest.
clearwater304
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I thought nothing can accelerate past the speed of light according to the theory of relativity. Why does using either one of those links suggest accelerations that lead to speeds greater than the speed of light even with less than 1 second of travel?
 
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