Lightning strikes at night, New Mexico, USA
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Lightning strikes at night, New Mexico, USA
Lightning. Night-time view of multiple bolts of lightning striking the ground. Lightning occurs when a large, electrical charge builds up in a cloud. This is probably due to the rapid movement of water droplets and ice particles within the cloud. Large thunderclouds generally have very turbulent interiors. The charge induces an opposite charge on the ground, and a few " leader electrons" travel to the ground. When one makes contact, there is a huge backflow of energy up the path of the electron. This produces a bright flash of light and temperatures of up to 30, 000 degrees celsius. Photographed near Lordsburg, New Mexico, USA
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6374047
© KEITH KENT/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Climate Electrical Storm Lightning Lightning Strike Meteorology New Mexico Night Storm Weather
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the raw power and beauty of nature's fury. In the darkened sky over New Mexico, USA, multiple bolts of lightning illuminate the night with their electrifying brilliance. Lightning is a mesmerizing phenomenon that occurs when an immense electrical charge builds up within a cloud. The rapid movement of water droplets and ice particles inside the cloud creates this charge, particularly in large thunderclouds with turbulent interiors. As these charged clouds induce an opposite charge on the ground below, leader electrons embark on a daring journey towards it. When one electron successfully makes contact with the earth's surface, an astonishing backflow of energy surges along its path. This intense release generates a blinding flash of light and temperatures soaring to unimaginable heights – up to 30,000 degrees Celsius. Photographed near Lordsburg in New Mexico, this image showcases not only the awe-inspiring force of nature but also highlights our fascination with meteorology and weather patterns. It serves as a reminder that even amidst darkness and uncertainty, there is still breathtaking beauty to be found in our world. This remarkable photograph comes from Science Photo Library – an invaluable resource for scientific imagery capturing moments like these that leave us both humbled and inspired by Mother Nature's extraordinary displays.
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