13 Unexpected Benefits of Lightning: The 7th Will Astonish Scientists

5. Electromagnetic Wave Generation

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The wide spectrum of electromagnetic waves produced by lightning strikes is a phenomena with unanticipated advantages in many different scientific and technical domains. From low-frequency radio waves to high-frequency gamma ray, these electromagnetic pulses give researchers a natural laboratory for investigating electromagnetic events. Radio astronomy is among the fields where one finds most important advantages. Through the Earth-ionosphere waveguide, very low frequency (VLF) waves generated by lightning can travel large distances allowing scientists to investigate ionosphere features and changes. Understanding space weather and how it impacts satellite communications and navigation systems depends on this knowledge. Furthermore, elusive events such as sprites and elves – upper atmospheric optical events occurring above thunderstorms – have been found and studied using lightning-generated electromagnetic waves. These investigations have clarified the top atmosphere of the Earth and its interactions with space. Regarding technology, research on the electromagnetic characteristics of lightning has produced developments in electromagnetic compatibility design for electronic equipment and lightning protection systems. Using their understanding of the electromagnetic waves of lightning, engineers create stronger surge protectors and construct electrical devices resistant to electromagnetic interference. Moreover, long-range communication systems have made use of the natural electromagnetic pulses produced by lightning and have even motivated fresh approaches of wireless power transmission. The study of these waves has also helped geolocation technology grow since the special electromagnetic signals of lightning strikes may be highly accurate in locating their sites, therefore supporting weather forecasting and climate analysis.