Science project
A Thunderous Sound
The big flash you see when lightning strikes is a natural electrical discharge between a cloud and the ground, or within a cloud. This lightning can travel as fast as 140,000 MPH and reach temperatures of 30,000°C. It heats the air adjacent to approximately 20,000°C - which is hotter than the surface of the sun. The temperature of the air drops quickly, causing a rapid contraction of the air. This rapid expansion and contraction of air creates intense supersonic shock wave. As this shock wave slows down to the speed of sound, you hear the thunderclap.
Problem:
What causes thunder and why is a thunderclap so loud?
Materials:
- Balloon
Procedure:
- Blow up a balloon so that it is near the breaking point. You are compressing the air inside the balloon.
- Set the balloon on the ground.
- Put your foot on the balloon and slowly push down. Your foot will feel a jolt as the air expands outward from the broken balloon. Although the rapid expansion of air coming from the balloon is very slight compared to the expansion caused by a lightning bolt, the principal is the same. Both cause a very loud explosive sounding noise.
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Education.com provides the Science Fair Project Ideas for informational purposes only. Education.com does not make any guarantee or representation regarding the Science Fair Project Ideas and is not responsible or liable for any loss or damage, directly or indirectly, caused by your use of such information. By accessing the Science Fair Project Ideas, you waive and renounce any claims against Education.com that arise thereof. In addition, your access to Education.com's website and Science Fair Project Ideas is covered by Education.com's Privacy Policy and site Terms of Use, which include limitations on Education.com's liability.
Warning is hereby given that not all Project Ideas are appropriate for all individuals or in all circumstances. Implementation of any Science Project Idea should be undertaken only in appropriate settings and with appropriate parental or other supervision. Reading and following the safety precautions of all materials used in a project is the sole responsibility of each individual. For further information, consult your state's handbook of Science Safety.
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