Velocity of lightning

In summary, one common method for estimating the distance to a lightning flash is to count the number of seconds between seeing the flash and hearing the thunder, and then dividing that number by 3 to get the distance in kilometers. To solve for the velocity of sound, the formula Distance = Speed x Time can be used, assuming that there is no delay in seeing the lightning and the delay in hearing the thunder is due to the slower speed of sound compared to the speed of light.
  • #1
timtng
25
0
A common method for estimating the distance to
a lightning flash is to begin counting when the flash is
observed and continue until the thunder clap is heard.
The number of seconds counted is then divided by 3 to
get the distance in kilometers. What is the velocity
of sound in kilometers per second?
(The speed of light is 3*10^8 m/s.)

I have no idea how to start this problem, please help?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
For all practical purposes, you can assume that you see the lightning with no delay. The sound of the thunder is delayed due to the much slower speed of sound.

Use Distance = Speed x Time to figure this one out.
 
  • #3


The velocity of sound in kilometers per second can be calculated by dividing the speed of sound in meters per second by 1000, since there are 1000 meters in 1 kilometer. The speed of sound in meters per second is approximately 343 m/s, which means the velocity of sound in kilometers per second is 0.343 km/s.

Using this information, we can estimate the distance to a lightning flash by counting the seconds between the flash and the thunder clap and dividing it by 3 to get the distance in kilometers. This method relies on the fact that sound travels at a constant speed, and by knowing the velocity of sound, we can estimate the distance to the lightning flash.

For example, if we count 6 seconds between the flash and the thunder clap, the distance to the lightning flash would be approximately 2 kilometers (6 seconds / 3 = 2 kilometers). This method is commonly used because the speed of sound is much slower than the speed of light, making it easier to observe and measure.

In summary, the velocity of sound in kilometers per second is 0.343 km/s and it can be used to estimate the distance to a lightning flash by dividing the number of seconds counted by 3. This method is a simple and effective way to estimate the distance to a lightning strike, but it is important to remember that it is only an estimate and may not be completely accurate.
 

1. What is the velocity of lightning?

The velocity of lightning is approximately 224,000 miles per hour or 360,000 kilometers per hour.

2. How is the velocity of lightning measured?

The velocity of lightning is measured using specialized equipment such as high-speed cameras and radio wave detectors.

3. Can the velocity of lightning vary?

Yes, the velocity of lightning can vary depending on factors such as air temperature, humidity, and the type of discharge.

4. How does the velocity of lightning compare to the speed of sound?

The velocity of lightning is much faster than the speed of sound, which is approximately 761 miles per hour or 1,225 kilometers per hour.

5. Why is it important to study the velocity of lightning?

Studying the velocity of lightning can provide valuable insights into the behavior and characteristics of lightning, which can help improve safety measures and better understand atmospheric phenomena.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
949
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
21
Views
481
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
10
Views
4K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
14
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
1K
Replies
2
Views
7K
Replies
20
Views
4K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
648
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
15
Views
1K
Back
Top