Physical explanation for thunder

In summary, the conversation discusses the explanation for thunder, with one person stating that it is caused by the collision of two clouds and the other person providing a more detailed explanation involving the neutralization of charges and the creation of a vacuum. The conversation ends with a recommendation to consult a specialized site for more accurate information.
  • #1
ash_win
2
0
folks,
when i was small,the explanation for thunder,given to me was that when two clouds clash lightning is produced and due to the collision thunder is heard

but now someone told me that thunder is caused when two clouds clash charges are neutralised and large amount of energy is liberated which appears in the form of lightning and during lightning the air get ionised and a large vacuum is created and after sometime air fills in the empty space with a rumbling noice which appears as the thunder

is this the correct explanation of thunder...if not please explain

thank you
 
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  • #2
I think sparks between clouds are enomous and very hot, probably millions of degrees. So the air in the region get hot too and expands suddenly creating thunders.
 
  • #3
It's best to look up a specialized site for this sort of thing.

http://www.wxdude.com/page5.html

The wikipedia page is disappointing.
 
Last edited by a moderator:

1. What causes thunder?

Thunder is caused by the rapid expansion of air surrounding a lightning bolt. When lightning strikes, it heats up the air around it to temperatures up to 54,000 degrees Fahrenheit. This sudden increase in temperature causes the air to expand rapidly, creating shock waves that we hear as thunder.

2. Why does thunder sound like a rumble or a clap?

The sound of thunder can vary depending on the distance between the lightning strike and the listener. If the lightning is far away, the sound waves have more time to travel and spread out, creating a low rumbling sound. If the lightning is closer, the sound waves will reach the listener faster and create a sharp clap of thunder.

3. Can thunder occur without lightning?

No, thunder is always caused by lightning. However, there are some instances where we may not see the lightning because it is too far away or hidden by clouds. This is known as "silent lightning" and can still produce thunder that can be heard.

4. How does the shape of the lightning bolt affect the sound of thunder?

The shape of the lightning bolt can affect the sound of thunder because it can determine the path and intensity of the shock waves. For example, a forked lightning bolt may create multiple paths for the shock waves to travel, resulting in a longer and more complex sound of thunder.

5. Why does thunder sometimes seem to come before the lightning?

This is known as "heat lightning" and it occurs when a storm is far away and we can only see the lightning but not hear the thunder. This is because sound travels much slower than light, so it takes longer for the sound waves to reach us compared to the light waves. As the storm gets closer, the sound of thunder will catch up to the lightning.

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