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8 grade science

Lightning strikes only on high rise buildings. Explain it.

Profile image of Aniket Singh
1 Year agoGrade
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1 Answer

Profile image of Askiitians Tutor Team
1 Year ago

Lightning does not exclusively strike high-rise buildings. Lightning can strike any object that is tall or isolated, such as trees, mountains, towers, or even people. However, high-rise buildings may appear to be more prone to lightning strikes due to a few reasons:

Height and Isolation: High-rise buildings are often the tallest structures in an area, and they stand out from the surrounding landscape. Their height and isolation make them more likely to be struck by lightning compared to shorter structures or objects.

Enhanced Electrical Field: As a thunderstorm approaches, it creates an electric field in the atmosphere. Tall objects, like high-rise buildings, can enhance this electrical field due to their height and shape. This enhanced electrical field can attract lightning strikes.

Conductivity: High-rise buildings are typically constructed with materials that have good electrical conductivity, such as steel or reinforced concrete. These materials allow lightning to travel through them more easily, reducing the risk of damage to the building itself. In contrast, other objects in the vicinity may not have the same conductivity, making high-rise buildings a more attractive path for lightning to follow.

Human Activity and Infrastructure: High-rise buildings are often found in urban areas with a denser concentration of people and infrastructure. This increases the likelihood of people noticing lightning strikes on these buildings and reporting them. Additionally, urban areas may have better lightning detection systems or more accessible means to capture and share such incidents, contributing to the perception that high-rise buildings are frequently struck by lightning.

It's important to note that while high-rise buildings may appear to be more prone to lightning strikes, the frequency of lightning strikes can vary depending on geographic location, local weather patterns, and other factors. Lightning can still strike objects and structures of any size and height. To minimize the risks associated with lightning strikes, buildings are often equipped with lightning protection systems that help redirect the electrical discharge safely into the ground, protecting the building and its occupants.