Is lightning caused by ice particles?

[Mk]

http://www.abc.net.au/science/news/stories/s1443052.htm
One of many articles on the proof that lightning is caused by ice flying around in the atmosphere. Apparently meteorologists are pretty certain about this. What about on Venus? There's a lot of lightning there, but certainly no ice.

What do all of you think on of the cosmic ray theory of lightning formation?

 

[LURCH]

Didn't have time to read the link, but I've heard the same assertion many times. Still, no matter how I search, I can't seem to find a report of a spark being generated this way in the lab. Has it been done?

Regarding Venus; I suppose that, if ice crystalls can generate lightning, crystals of amonia or sulfur or anything else that crystalizes when it freezes would do the same, would it not?

 

[Graeme Robinson]

It is fascinating to learn that lightning, a phenomenon often associated with heat and electricity, is actually caused by ice particles in the atmosphere. This discovery highlights the complexity of weather systems and how seemingly unrelated elements can interact to create powerful natural events.

The fact that lightning can also occur on Venus, a planet with a vastly different atmosphere and no known presence of ice, raises interesting questions about the cause of lightning in other environments. It is possible that there are other factors at play in the formation of lightning on Venus, and further research is needed to fully understand this phenomenon.

The cosmic ray theory of lightning formation is an intriguing concept that suggests that cosmic rays from space could trigger the formation of lightning. While this theory is still being studied and debated, it adds to our understanding of the many potential factors that contribute to the formation of lightning.

Overall, this article sheds light on the fascinating and complex nature of lightning and the ongoing research being conducted to understand its formation. It serves as a reminder of the countless mysteries that still exist in our world and the importance of scientific exploration in uncovering them.