Introduction
Lightning has captivated humanity for millennia, but only in recent decades have scientists begun to unravel its secrets. From ancient myths of gods hurling thunderbolts to modern physics labs, the quest to understand what causes lightning has taken surprising turns. One researcher, Joseph Dwyer, has been at the forefront, shifting from studying solar flares to deciphering Earth's electrical storms. His work, combined with satellite observations and new theories, has upended traditional explanations. In this article, we explore ten key insights into lightning's origins, from cosmic rays to runaway electrons. Each discovery adds a layer of complexity to a phenomenon we thought we knew.
