Question

If the lower portion of clouds are negatively charged, what effect does it have on the Earth?

• A. Attract the positive charges to the surface, and cause them to accumulate
• B. Attract the negative charges to the surface, and cause them to accumulate
• C. No charge will be induced on the surface of the Earth.
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is A

Attract the positive charges to the surface, and cause them to accumulate

Before lightning, there is a buildup of negative charges at the bottom of the cloud which induces positive charges on the ground. This causes the lightning to strike the earth's surface.