Lightning can be a source of wonder and fear among any group of individuals. Once shrouded in mystery, the magnificent displays of nature’s power have been the center of awe and amazement for many, especially for those of us interested in the phenomenon of ball lightning. The major difference between traditional lightning and the latter is its form, the former moves quickly from one point in space to another, while the latter forms a sphere that hangs in the air for a relatively prolonged period of time.
The lighted orbs have been the subject of interest for storm enthusiasts and scientists alike. Nicola Tesla tried to explain ball lightning in 1904, and others have followed suit. However, the phenomenon remains an enigma among the scientific as well as the regular population. Some scientists believe that lightning can be reproduced in a lab, while others contend that it can not, simply by its nature. Fundamental differences like this could attribute to the confusion about the occurrence. Part of the mystery lies in the rare incidence of ball lightning. Very few people have witnessed it and the ones who have seem to have very different experiences. Eye witness accounts vary greatly from report to report, making the strange occurrence puzzling to those who try to research the subject.
Most encounters happen during thunderstorms. However, many eye witness accounts claim that they have seen ball lightning without the presence of storms. Some describe ball lighting as oval in shape, showing three dimensions, while others maintain that it is circular in shape. It has also been described by some as being transparent while others argue that it appears solid in form.
Color is another object of debate when it comes to the lightning. It has been described as red by some and yellow by others, both of which are vastly different from the other. The orbs are also said to carry a fire or spark in some cases. The sparks carry a white to blue hue normally associated with traditional lightning that we commonly see.
Another thing that baffles sky watchers about the phenomenon is how the occurrence ends. Some assert that the orbs explode in the air. Others argue that it is absorbed into the ground or other element, and still others maintain that ball lightning simply vanishes into the sky. The only consistent contention is that ball lightning hovers for an extended period of time.
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