Machine Learning

#### Lightning: A Natural Spark Discharge Lightning is a natural spark discharge that occurs within the atmosphere or between the atmosphere and the Earth's surface. It is a large-scale phenomenon that involves the creation of a highly electrically conductive plasma channel within the air. This plasma channel is formed when a discharge of current flows within the air, rapidly heating the air up to about 25,000°C. #### Formation of the Plasma Channel The formation of the plasma channel during lightning is a result of the electrical properties of the atmosphere and the discharge of current. The exact mechanisms of lightning formation are complex and involve processes such as preliminary breakdown, stepped leader formation, and return stroke. During the return stroke, a massive flow of electric current occurs, rapidly superheating the completed leader channel and forming a highly electrically conductive plasma channel. The core temperature of the plasma during the return stroke can exceed 50,000 K, causing it