Definition of Thunder
Thunder is the sound caused by lightning. Depending upon the distance from and nature of the lightning, it can range from a long, low rumble to a sudden, loud crack. The sudden increase in temperature and hence pressure caused by the lightning produces rapid expansion of the air in the path of a lightning bolt. In turn, this expansion of air creates a sonic shock wave, often referred to as a "thunderclap" or "peal of thunder". The scientific study of thunder is known as brontology and the irrational fear (phobia) of thunder is called brontophobia.
Related terms
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Questions people ask
Real questions from the Stack Exchange community – follow a link to read the discussion.
Further reading
- Generation and Propagation of Thunder · Wikibooks: Acoustics
- Thunder acoustics · Wikibooks: Engineering Acoustics
Frequently asked questions
What is Thunder?
Thunder is the sound caused by lightning. Depending upon the distance from and nature of the lightning, it can range from a long, low rumble to a sudden, loud crack.