Thunder is the sound caused by lightning. Depending on the nature of the lightning and distance of the listener, thunder can range from a sharp, loud crack to a long, low rumble (brontide). The sudden increase in pressure and temperature from lightning produces rapid expansion of the air surrounding and within a bolt of lightning. In turn, this expansion of air creates a sonic shock wave, similar to a sonic boom, which produces the sound of thunder, often referred to as a clap, crack, or peal of thunder. The distance of the lightning can be calculated by the listener based on the time interval from when the lightning is seen to when the sound is heard.
Read more about Thunder: Cause, Etymology, Calculating Distance
Famous quotes containing the word thunder:
“It is the mind that is woven, the mind that was jerked
And tufted in straggling thunder and shattered sun.”
—Wallace Stevens (1879–1955)
“Lies save trouble now, but may return in thunder and lightning.”
—Mason Cooley (b. 1927)
“You will trail across the rocks
and wash them with your salt,
you will curl between sand-hills
you will thunder along the cliff
break retreat get fresh strength
gather and pour weight upon the beach.”
—Hilda Doolittle (1886–1961)