Cosmic Rays May Trigger Lightning Strikes on Earth, Study Finds
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Summary
A new study suggests that the energy required for lightning strikes on Earth may originate from extraterrestrial cosmic rays, which trigger an avalanche of electrons. This discovery, supported by computer simulations, addresses the long-standing mystery of how storm clouds generate the powerful electric fields needed for lightning.
Key quotes
· 3 pulledThe energy needed for thunderstorms could come from an avalanche of electrons seeded by extraterrestrial cosmic rays, a new study claims.
Scientists already knew that lightning is an electrical discharge between thunderclouds and Earth's surface, but exactly how storm clouds obtain an electric field powerful enough to hurl a bolt has remained a mystery for centuries.
Now, a new study has used computer models to reveal that lightning strikes as the result of a powerful chain reaction from outer space.
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