How Does Lightning Form?

Use the descriptions and pictures to put the steps of a lightning strike in order. Image Sources: WeatherSTEM

Step 1: The atmosphere inside of a thunderstorm is very turbulent. Hailstones are bounced around by the strong updrafts and downdrafts within the cloud. This process causes the bottom of the clouds to become negatively charged.

Step 2: An initial charge of electrons proceeds toward the ground due to its attraction to positive charges on the ground. This “stepped ladder” is very faint but can be seen by the human eye.

Step 3: As the stepped ladder approaches the ground, a current of positive charges starts upward from the ground to meet it.

Step 4: Once they meet, electrons flow more freely and a return stroke surges up from the ground to the cloud. This stroke is more luminous and the one that causes thunder.