Lightning’s Surprising Impact on Earth’s Atmosphere

Lightning’s Surprising Impact on Earth’s Atmosphere
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A new study reveals that lightning does more than create dramatic light shows and loud thunder; it also plays a significant and previously underestimated role in shaping Earth’s atmosphere, an article on Earth.com revealed. Researchers have found that each lightning strike creates a complex array of chemicals that both pollute and cleanse the air.

According to the report, lightning generates nitrogen oxides, which are also found in vehicle exhaust. These gases contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone, a primary component of smog that can cause respiratory issues and is considered a major air pollutant. While human activities produce a greater volume of nitrogen oxides, lightning releases its portion at much higher altitudes. This is a crucial distinction, as ozone formed at higher altitudes can have a more potent warming effect on the climate.

However, lightning also produces a beneficial effect. It creates highly reactive molecules called hydroxyl and hydroperoxyl radicals, which act as the atmosphere’s “cleaning crew.” These molecules are essential for breaking down harmful gases, including methane, a powerful greenhouse gas. The study, which used satellite data to monitor the effects of thunderstorms, found that the amounts of these cleaning agents produced by lightning were far greater than previously believed.