INDIRECT LIGHTNING Meaning and
Definition
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Indirect lightning refers to the electrical discharge that occurs between two points, usually the ground and a cloud, that is conducted through objects in its path rather than directly striking them. This phenomenon generally happens when a lightning bolt targets an object or structure with high conductivity, such as a tall building or a tree, and travels through it to reach the ground. The electrical current moves along the path of least resistance, utilizing conductive materials like metal pipes, wires, or other electrical installations.
In the case of indirect lightning, the discharge does not make contact with the object directly, but rather jumps between conductors in close proximity, known as side-flashing. This can pose a significant risk to buildings, installations, and humans as the current can cause damage, injury, or even fatalities by inducing power surges or starting fires. Therefore, adequate lightning protection measures are essential to safeguard structures, electrical systems, and the people occupying them.
To protect against indirect lightning strikes, different strategies can be implemented, such as lightning rods, surge protection devices, grounding systems, and shielding materials. By redirecting or dissipating the electrical current away from sensitive areas, these protective measures help minimize the risk of damage or harm caused by the potentially destructive power of indirect lightning.
Common Misspellings for INDIRECT LIGHTNING
- undirect lightning
- jndirect lightning
- kndirect lightning
- ondirect lightning
- 9ndirect lightning
- 8ndirect lightning
- ibdirect lightning
- imdirect lightning
- ijdirect lightning
- ihdirect lightning
- insirect lightning
- inxirect lightning
- incirect lightning
- infirect lightning
- inrirect lightning
- ineirect lightning
- indurect lightning
- indjrect lightning
- indkrect lightning
- indorect lightning
Etymology of INDIRECT LIGHTNING
The term "indirect lightning" does not have a specific etymology as it is a combination of two words with independent origins.1. Indirect: The word "indirect" comes from the Latin word "indirēctus", which is a combination of the prefix "in-" meaning "not" or "without" and the word "directus", meaning "straight" or "direct". It entered the English language in the 17th century, maintaining its Latin meaning of not following a direct course or being deviated from a straight line.2. Lightning: The word "lightning" finds its roots in the Old English word "lihting", which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "lehtingaz". This further traces back to the Proto-Indo-European word "*leuk-", meaning "light" or "brightness". Lightning refers to the sudden flash of light emitted during a thunderstorm.
