Does lightning strike the same place twice?

Contrary to popular belief, lightning can strike the same place twice. Understand the reason and look at other myths about these phenomena

The popular saying goes that “lightning never strikes twice in the same place”. The expression refers to events that do not usually happen twice in the same place or with the same person, whether they are positive (such as winning the lottery) or negative – such as being struck by lightning. But can lightning strike the same place twice?

• What is a Ray?
• How are rays formed?

The truth is that the popular saying has no scientific basis: not only can lightning strike the same place more than once, but certain places can also receive multiple electric shocks in a row.

Considering a large open field, a radius it can strike anywhere on its surface, which makes the chances of the exact same spot being hit twice in a short period of time low.

But there’s no scientific basis for saying that lightning won’t strike again at the same spot in that open field. It can be said that it is all a matter of “luck”, or mere luck. And it’s worth noting that enclosed spaces, such as buildings, can be prime targets for lightning strikes. during a storm – that’s why buildings have lightning conductors on the roofs.

How does lightning “choose” where to strike?

When an electric field forms between the clouds and the ground during a thunderstorm, the electric charge is released by connecting these two extremes through a preferential path, which offers least resistance. This way, taller structures and certain materials can be hit more frequently.

one’s lightning rod they are built with this in mind, using their placement, shape and composition to protect people and buildings. These devices direct the electric discharge to the ground, preventing lightning from causing damage.

If there is nothing that can attract and direct the rays to a specific place, as is the case in an open field, there is no way to predict where they will land.

lightning myths

In addition to the myth that lightning doesn’t strike twice in the same place, there are other misconceptions about lightning, some including that it can put people at risk during severe thunderstorms.

An example is the act of taking cover under trees during a storm. Trees are not a good shelter against this type of phenomenon: the way lightning works, under trees it’s actually a very bad place to be. In an exposed place, ducking is also not a good way out – the best option is to move as quickly as possible to a safe place.

A building or house is the ideal shelter from lightning, but a smaller shelter like a car can also provide the needed protection. Even if lightning struck the vehicle, the people inside would be safe. But, contrary to what one might think, rubber tires do not guarantee it: protection occurs because the metal structure of cars acts like what scientists call Faraday cage – electricity is drawn from the metal just like in the experiment of the same name.

Finally, if a person is struck by lightning, is not electrically charged and it is safe to approach your body. Someone who receives such an electric shock needs immediate medical attention – in some cases, heart massage may be required.

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Source: Terra

Rose

Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.