Earth as a Capacitor: Lightning & Rain

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the process of lightning formation, specifically how the charge differences between clouds and the ground lead to electrical discharges. It is established that clouds become charged through friction, akin to rubbing a glass rod with silk. When the charge disparity reaches a critical level, it results in lightning, which can occur between clouds or from clouds to the ground. For further understanding, the book "All About Lightning" by Martin Uman is recommended as a valuable resource.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of atmospheric electricity
  • Familiarity with the principles of static electricity
  • Knowledge of cloud formation and weather patterns
  • Basic physics concepts related to electrical discharges
NEXT STEPS
  • Read "All About Lightning" by Martin Uman
  • Research the mechanisms of cloud charging and discharge
  • Explore the role of humidity and temperature in lightning formation
  • Investigate safety measures during thunderstorms and lightning events
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for meteorologists, educators in atmospheric sciences, students studying weather phenomena, and anyone interested in the science behind lightning and electrical discharges in the atmosphere.

shivakumar06
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dear sir
the charge on clouds and ground can be different and this causes lightning due rain only. i want to know more about the process that causes it
 
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Clouds become charged by rubbing against one another, not unlike rubbing a glass rod with a silk cloth. When the charge becomes sufficiently disparate you can have cloud to cloud, or cloud to ground electrical discharges [i.e., lightning].
 
shivakumar06 said:
dear sir
the charge on clouds and ground can be different and this causes lightning due rain only. i want to know more about the process that causes it

Go ahead and read All About Lightning, by Martin Uman. Only $6.95 from Dover.
 
shivakumar, you "want to know" all about all kinds of neat subjects. So do we all.

That's a healthy curiosity, and good to see, however the subjects tend to get quite big so it is difficult to know how best to help you.

The way to get best value from these forums is to read about the subjects oneself and then ask questions about it where you get stuck. The questions are a way we can narrow down our replies to things that will be helpful.
 

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