2. Seismic Activity
Another possible trigger for ball lightning has been suggested as seismic activity including tectonic plate motions and earthquakes. Various gasses and charged particles can be released by the great friction and pressure created by moving rock strata deep within the Earth’s crust. Some scientists speculate that when these subsurface emissions reach the surface, they may set the ideal environment for ball lightning development. The piezoelectric effect—which results from mechanical stress applied to some crystals in rocks—may produce electrical charges that support the phenomena. Moreover, the unexpected release of trapped gases during earthquakes could produce isolated pockets of ionized air that supply the required components for ball lightning to develop. Although the link between seismic activity and ball lightning is still mostly theoretical, some eyewitness reports of seeing brilliant orbs near places prone to earthquakes inspire more investigation on this fascinating prospect.
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