How do volcanic eruptions create lightning in ash clouds?
Quick Answer
As ash, ice, and rock fragments collide inside the plume, they build up electric charge. When the charge difference becomes large enough, lightning flashes through the cloud.
The Full Story
Volcanic lightning forms when particles in an eruption cloud collide and separate electric charge, much like in thunderstorm clouds. Ash, ice, and tiny rock fragments all help produce the charge imbalance. In tall, fast-moving plumes, the lightning can be surprisingly intense and can appear near the vent or higher in the cloud. Scientists study volcanic lightning because it can help reveal how an eruption plume is behaving. It is one of the most dramatic signs that a volcano has entered an explosive phase.
Key Facts
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"How a volcano makes its own lightning storm"
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