Lightning
Lightning
Lightning (/ˈlaɪtnɪŋ/ LY-tn-ing) is a naturally occurring electrostatic discharge during which two electrically charged regions in the atmosphere or ground temporarily equalize themselves, causing the instantaneous release of as much as one billion joules of energy.
Etymology
The word "lightning" comes from the Old English "lígethund", which translates roughly to "lightning bolt". The term was later shortened to "lightning" in Middle English.
Related Terms
- Thunder: The sound caused by lightning.
- Storm: A violent atmospheric disturbance characterized by strong winds, rain, thunder, and lightning.
- Electrostatic Discharge: A sudden flow of electricity between two electrically charged objects.
- Atmosphere: The envelope of gases surrounding the earth or another planet.
- Joule: The SI unit of work or energy.
See Also
- Cloud: A visible mass of condensed water vapor floating in the atmosphere.
- Rain: Moisture condensed from the atmosphere that falls visibly in separate drops.
- Wind: The perceptible natural movement of the air.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Lightning
- Wikipedia's article - Lightning
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