Why Doesn't Lightning Pull the Cloud to the Ground?

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In summary, lightning occurs due to induction between the differently charged cloud and the ground. The Earth does not pull the cloud towards it because the charges are opposite, but it does attract the cloud in a small movement. Before a lightning strike, you may experience your hair standing up straight and should take precautions to protect yourself.
  • #1
gabby989062
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Homework Statement



We were reading about lightning and how the cloud has a different charge than the ground. We know that lightning happens because of induction. But if the charges are different, why doesn't the Earth pull the cloud to the ground, or repel it higher into the air?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


 
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  • #2
It wouldn't repel the cloud, since the charges are opposite; but it does attract the cloud, although it is a very small movement. More noticeable might be your hair standing up straight up on end just before the bolt strikes...if it does, you're in big trouble...crouch low, click those heels together, block your ears, ...and pray:wink: ...
 
  • #3


Lightning is a natural phenomenon that occurs when there is a difference in electrical charge between two objects, such as a cloud and the ground. This difference in charge creates an electrical field, which causes the movement of electrons. When the electric field becomes strong enough, it can cause a rapid discharge of electricity, resulting in a lightning strike.

The reason why lightning does not pull the cloud to the ground or repel it higher into the air is due to the balance of forces acting on the cloud. While the Earth does have a different charge than the cloud, it is not significant enough to overcome the other forces at play. Additionally, the Earth's surface is a poor conductor of electricity, so the charge difference between the Earth and the cloud is not able to create a strong enough electric field to pull the cloud towards the ground.

Furthermore, the cloud itself is not a solid object, but rather a collection of water droplets and ice crystals. These particles are not able to conduct electricity like a solid object, so the charge difference between the cloud and the ground does not have a strong enough effect on the movement of the cloud.

In summary, the reason why lightning does not pull the cloud to the ground or repel it higher into the air is due to a combination of factors, including the balance of forces, the poor conductivity of the Earth's surface, and the nature of the cloud itself.
 

1. Why doesn't lightning pull the cloud to the ground?

Lightning is a discharge of electricity that occurs within a cloud or between a cloud and the ground. It is caused by an imbalance of electrical charges between the cloud and the ground, and is not strong enough to pull the entire cloud to the ground.

2. How does lightning form in a cloud?

Lightning forms when water droplets and ice particles within a cloud collide and create an electrical charge. The heavier negative charges sink to the bottom of the cloud, while the lighter positive charges rise to the top. This creates an imbalance of charges, leading to lightning.

3. Is lightning attracted to the tallest objects?

Although it may seem like tall objects such as trees and buildings are more likely to be struck by lightning, this is not always the case. Lightning is unpredictable and can strike any object that provides a path for the electrical discharge to reach the ground.

4. Can lightning strike the same place twice?

Yes, lightning can strike the same place more than once. In fact, tall structures such as skyscrapers and radio towers are often struck multiple times during a storm. This is because these objects provide a direct path for the electrical discharge to reach the ground.

5. What precautions should I take during a lightning storm?

If you are outdoors during a lightning storm, it is important to seek shelter immediately. Avoid tall objects and open areas, and do not take shelter under trees. If you are indoors, stay away from windows, avoid using electronic devices, and do not touch anything metal. It is also important to wait at least 30 minutes after the last lightning strike before going back outside.

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