Why does the thunder from lighting last much longer than the flash?

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SUMMARY

The duration of thunder compared to lightning is primarily due to the length of the lightning bolt and the speed of sound. Lightning can extend for miles, causing the sound to travel along various paths, which results in a prolonged auditory experience lasting 5-6 seconds. Additionally, environmental factors such as echoes from surrounding hills can further extend the duration of thunder. This phenomenon is clearly illustrated in a video showcasing a thunderstorm in Southern California.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, particularly sound and light propagation.
  • Familiarity with the speed of sound in air (approximately 343 meters per second).
  • Knowledge of how environmental factors, such as topography, can affect sound waves.
  • Awareness of the characteristics of lightning, including its length and structure.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the physics of sound propagation in different mediums.
  • Explore the effects of topography on sound waves and echo formation.
  • Learn about the characteristics and behavior of lightning, including its formation and structure.
  • Watch educational videos on thunderstorms and their acoustic properties.
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Students of physics, meteorologists, audio engineers, and anyone interested in the science behind weather phenomena and sound propagation.

cantgetaname
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I was walking home today when I noticed that the flash from a lighting takes a fraction of a second while the sound lasts a good 5-6 seconds.
I couldn't think of an explanation for this, except a wild guess that maybe the source of sound is a line source and sound from different points on the lightning bolt takes different times to reach the observer.
 
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That's most of the answer. Lightning bolts can be miles long. Sound in air needs several seconds to travel a miles-longer path. Another answer depending on your surroundings is the presence of echoes, which create additional paths.
 
Here is a video of an unusual (for southern California) thunderstorm. There are a few instances where you see the flash and hear the thunder. At this particular location, echoes from nearby hills add to the sound.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=46yPXf2DwXc
 

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