Question

Which of the following are true regarding clouds during a thunderstorm?

• A. Upper parts of the clouds are positively charged and Lower parts of clouds are negatively charged.
• B. Upper parts of the clouds are negatively charged and Lower parts of clouds are positively charged.
• C. Upper and Lower parts of clouds are negatively charged.
• D. Upper and Lower parts of clouds are positively charged.

Answer 1

The correct option is A

Upper parts of the clouds are positively charged and Lower parts of clouds are negatively charged.

Lightning occurs when there is a charge separation in the cloud. Electrical charges build up within the cloud. In clouds, the upper parts of the cloud are usually positively charged and the bottom of the cloud becomes negatively charged. The electric field induces a movement of electrons from the cloud down towards the Earth or to neighbouring clouds.