Thunder is the sound caused by lightning. [1][2][3] Depending upon the distance from and nature of the lightning, it can range from a long, low rumble to a sudden, loud crack.

Jun 17, 2021 · The loud thunder that follows the lightning bolt is commonly said to come from the bolt itself. However, the grumbles and growls we hear in thunderstorms actually come from the …

Dec 30, 2002 · Thunder is caused by lightning, which is essentially a stream of electrons flowing between or within clouds, or between a cloud and the ground.

Apr 5, 2023 · Thunder is the acoustic shock wave resulting from the extreme heat generated by a lightning flash. It is produced the same way regardless of whether lightning is positive or …

May 16, 2023 · The short answer is that an unequal distribution of electrical charges cause a static discharge, which we call lightning, while thunder is the sound that results from the rapid …

Nov 25, 2025 · Thunder is caused by the rapid expansion of air heated by a lightning discharge, which creates a shock wave. This shock wave is heard as thunder.

Mar 8, 2025 · Air temperature, humidity, and density alter how sound waves travel and dissipate. Mountains, buildings, and open fields reflect or absorb sound, creating echoes and muffling …

Feb 13, 2025 · Thunder is the sound produced when lightning heats the surrounding air rapidly. This sudden heating causes the air to expand quickly, creating a shockwave that becomes the …

Oct 19, 2023 · What Causes Thunder? In simple words, thunder is the sound produced by lightning. It all begins with a cloud made of water droplets and ice crystals. During a …

This rapid expansion and contraction creates the sound wave that we hear as thunder. Although a lightning discharge usually strikes just one spot on the ground, it travels many miles through …