Thunder
Thunder
Thunder is the sound produced by lightning during a thunderstorm. It is a sonic shock wave resulting from the rapid expansion of air surrounding the path of a lightning bolt. Thunder can be heard up to 25 miles away from the lightning strike, depending on atmospheric conditions.
Formation[edit | edit source]
Thunder is created when a lightning bolt heats the air around it to temperatures as high as 30,000 Kelvin (53,540 degrees Fahrenheit). This extreme heat causes the air to expand rapidly, creating a shock wave that we perceive as the sound of thunder. The speed of sound in air is approximately 343 meters per second (1,125 feet per second), so the sound of thunder is heard after the flash of lightning is seen.
Characteristics[edit | edit source]
Thunder can vary in sound from a sharp, loud crack to a long, low rumble. The sound depends on several factors, including the distance from the lightning strike, the nature of the terrain, and atmospheric conditions. Close lightning strikes produce a sharp, loud crack, while distant strikes produce a low rumble due to the scattering of sound waves over long distances.
Types of Thunder[edit | edit source]
- Clap Thunder: A short, loud burst of sound, typically associated with a nearby lightning strike.
- Rolling Thunder: A prolonged rumble, often heard when the lightning strike is farther away, causing the sound waves to reflect and scatter over a larger area.
Safety Precautions[edit | edit source]
Thunder is an indicator of nearby lightning, which can be dangerous. The "30-30 Rule" is a safety guideline: if the time between seeing lightning and hearing thunder is 30 seconds or less, the lightning is close enough to pose a threat, and one should seek shelter immediately. It is advised to remain indoors for at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder.
Cultural Significance[edit | edit source]
Throughout history, thunder has been associated with various deities and myths. In Norse mythology, Thor is the god of thunder, wielding his hammer Mjölnir to create thunder and lightning. In Greek mythology, Zeus is the god of the sky and thunder, often depicted with a thunderbolt.
Also see[edit | edit source]
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