The Story of Lightning
This section elucidates the phenomenon of lightning, explaining its formation through electrical charges generated during thunderstorms. As air currents rise and water droplets descend, a separation of charges occurs within the clouds—positive charges gather at the top while negative charges accumulate at the bottom. Consequently, positive charges build up on the ground. When the difference in charges becomes substantially large, the air—a normally poor conductor—fails to insulate these charges, resulting in a sudden electric discharge that manifests as visible streaks of lightning.
The electric discharge can happen between clouds or between a cloud and the earth itself, creating not only light but sound in the form of thunder. The section conveys that while ancient people feared lightning as divine wrath, modern science provides a rational understanding of its formation, emphasizing the need to take safety precautions because lightning can cause immense damage and loss of life.
The need for lightning safety measures is crucial, as highlighted by specific actions people should take during thunderstorms, such as seeking shelter indoors, avoiding metal objects, and staying away from tall trees. The section also introduces the concept of lightning conductors as protective measures for buildings, helping to direct electric charges safely into the ground.