Question

Lightning process is a example of electrostatic in nature. Why?

Answer 1

The electrostatic field between the clouds and the ground can produce ions and free electrons in the air. Eventually the difference in potential between the clouds and the ground can become so great that the air dielectric begins to break down.Electrostatics involves the accumulation of charge on the surface of objects due to rubbing . Charge exchange happens whenever any two surfaces contact and separate. When any surfaces, say wool and plastic, are rubbed each other electrons are pulled from one surfaces and relocated on the other surface thus creating a positive and negative charge.

For examples, some materials like amber attract light weight particles after rubbing .

Also the attraction of plastic wrap [positive charged]to your hand or clothing [ negative charged] after you remove it, photocopier and laser printer operation, even the comb after rubbing attracts light weight particles like paper balls.

Lightning is also another example of electrostatic force , but is shown in a massive scale. When the clouds rub each other the particles gain charge, and the flash of lightning is the equalising charge send to earth as earth is a neutral place to dump charges.

Answer 2

The electrostatic field between the clouds and the ground can produce ions and free electrons in the air. Eventually the difference in potential between the clouds and the ground can become so great that the air dielectric begins to break down.