Lightning, a captivating atmospheric phenomenon, is a massive electrical discharge that occurs during thunderstorms. The buildup of electrical charges within a thundercloud leads to the development of positive and negative regions, causing an imbalance in electrical potential. When the potential difference becomes sufficiently large, a sudden and powerful release of electrical energy takes place, resulting in a dazzling flash of light and the characteristic cracking sound of thunder. Lightning can strike the ground, other clouds, or within the cloud itself, creating awe-inspiring displays of nature's electrical power.
