Scientists make breakthrough in solving mystery of volcanic lightning

Research shows fine carbon coating on silica in updraught causes electrical charge – and spectacular displayResearchers are a step closer to understanding volcanic lightning, one of the most spectacular atmospheric phenomena, which can be seen playing among the clouds of smoke and ash during an eruption. The intensity is extreme: the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha‘apai eruption, in the Tongan archipelago in 2022, produced more than 2,600 lightning flashes a minute stretching up to 19 miles (31km) above se...