Question

Describe the construction and working of a lightning conductor.

Answer 1

Step1: Construction

1. A lightning conductor is installed on building to prevent them from getting damaged due to lightning.
2. It consists of a set of long pointed spikes that are attached to a metal rod.
3. This metal rod is installed on the roof of the building and is connected to a metal plate buried inside the earth.
4. To ensure a good connection between the soil and the plate, it is sprinkled with water and oil.
   

Step2: Working

1. When a negatively charged cloud comes above the building, a positive charge is induced on the spikes of the lightning conductor.
2. This large amount of charge between the cloud and the spikes leads to the ionisation of the air in between them.
3. After this, the charge from the clouds moves to the spikes and then through the metal rod, to the Earth.
4. So, instead of the charge being transferred to the building, the metal plate and lightning conductor send it safely to the ground, thereby, preventing any damage to the building.