LIGHTNING STROKE Meaning and
Definition
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A lightning stroke, also known as a lightning strike, refers to the sudden discharge of atmospheric electricity that occurs when a path is created for the electric current between a cloud and the ground or between two clouds. It is a natural phenomenon characterized by an intense, bright flash of light accompanied by a loud crackling or thunderous sound.
A lightning stroke typically begins with the creation and development of an electrical channel within a thundercloud, known as a stepped leader. As the stepped leader approaches the ground or another cloud, it creates a path of ionized air molecules. Once the stepped leader connects with the oppositely charged ground or cloud, it completes the circuit and allows for a powerful electric current to flow rapidly along the previously established path. This results in the visible discharge of lightning, which is often seen as a jagged bolt or forked path of light.
The extreme temperature of a lightning stroke results in the rapid expansion of air surrounding the discharge path, generating shockwaves that manifest as a thunderclap. Lightning strokes can vary in intensity and duration, with some lasting only a few microseconds while others may stretch for several seconds.
Although the majority of lightning strokes do not directly strike individuals, they can pose significant risks. The high voltage and intense current associated with lightning can cause injuries or fatalities, damage to structures, as well as forest fires. Therefore, it is crucial to take necessary precautions, such as seeking shelter indoors or avoiding exposed areas, during thunderstorms to minimize the potential dangers posed by lightning strokes.
Common Misspellings for LIGHTNING STROKE
- kightning stroke
- pightning stroke
- oightning stroke
- lughtning stroke
- ljghtning stroke
- lkghtning stroke
- loghtning stroke
- l9ghtning stroke
- l8ghtning stroke
- lifhtning stroke
- livhtning stroke
- libhtning stroke
- lihhtning stroke
- liyhtning stroke
- lithtning stroke
- liggtning stroke
- ligbtning stroke
- ligntning stroke
- ligjtning stroke
- ligutning stroke
Etymology of LIGHTNING STROKE
The term "lightning stroke" combines two words: "lightning" and "stroke".
- "Lightning" originated from the Old English word "lihting", which is derived from the Old Norse word "lighta" and the Proto-Germanic word "linhtingu". These words referred to the flash of light associated with a lightning strike. The term can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root "leug", meaning "to shine".
- "Stroke" comes from the Old English word "strāc", which means a blow, an attack, or an act of striking. It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "straikaz". The word "stroke" also has a broader range of meanings, such as a sudden action, movement, or loss of function due to damage.
Therefore, "lightning stroke" describes the act of a forceful blow or attack caused by lightning.
