Key Characteristics of Thunder

Thunder is the loud sound produced by the rapid expansion and contraction of air surrounding a lightning bolt. When lightning occurs, it heats the air to extremely high temperatures (up to 30,000°C or 54,000°F) in a fraction of a second. This sudden heating causes the air to expand explosively, creating a shockwave that we hear as thunder. Key Characteristics of Thunder: Cause: Generated by lightning discharges during thunderstorms. Sound: Can range from a sharp crack (close lightning) to a low rumble (distant lightning). Speed: Sound travels slower than light, so thunder is heard after the lightning is seen (~3 seconds per kilometer or ~5 seconds per mile). Variations: Rolling thunder occurs when sound waves reflect off terrain and clouds. Thunderclaps are sudden, loud bursts from nearby lightning. Why Does Thunder Sound Different? Distance: Nearby thunder is a sharp bang, while distant thunder rumbles due to sound waves traveling farthe...