How lightning forms in general is still debated among scientists, and volcanic lightning is even less well understood. What is mostly agreed upon is that the process starts when particles separate, either after a collision or when a larger particle breaks in two. Then some difference in the aerodynamics of these particles causes the positively charged particles to be systematically separated from the negatively charged particles. Lightning is the electrical flow that results when this charge separation becomes too great for air to resist the flow of electricity.
Pictured below, the Sakurajima volcano in southern Japan was caught erupting in early January 2013.
The below image is particularly notable, however, for the lightning bolts caught near the volcano's summit.
One hypothesis holds that catapulting magma bubbles or volcanic ash are themselves electrically charged, and by their motion create these separated areas.
Pictured below, the Sakurajima volcano in southern Japan was caught erupting in early January 2013.
The below image is particularly notable, however, for the lightning bolts caught near the volcano's summit.
One hypothesis holds that catapulting magma bubbles or volcanic ash are themselves electrically charged, and by their motion create these separated areas.
Reference:http://geology.com/articles/volcanic-lightning/
Image Credit & Copyright:
Martin Rietze (Alien Landscapes on Planet Earth)
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