The Power and Speed of Lightning

Lightning is a powerful natural phenomenon that occurs when electrical charges build up in storm clouds and are released in a sudden burst. This discharge creates a flash of light and a shockwave we hear as thunder. What’s truly fascinating is that lightning strikes the Earth about 100 times every second, amounting to roughly 8.6 million strikes per day worldwide. Each strike can carry up to one billion volts of electricity, enough to power an entire city if only we could harness it safely.

Lightning’s Role in Nature


Despite its danger, lightning also plays a beneficial role in nature. It helps fix nitrogen in the atmosphere, turning it into a form that plants can absorb from the soil an essential part of the nitrogen cycle. In some ecosystems, lightning can even spark wildfires, which are a natural part of forest regeneration. However, lightning can be deadly for humans and animals, so it’s important to take safety precautions during storms, like staying indoors and avoiding tall, open areas. Shutdown123

 

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