12. Lightning Follows Unpredictable Paths
Against the common wisdom, lightning may and usually does strike the same spot twice. A complicated interaction of electrical charges, air density, and conductive material present defines the route of a lightning bolt. Though isolated items and lofty buildings are more likely to be struck, the precise course of lightning is still somewhat erratic. The chaotic character of the electrical breakdown process in the air accounts for this variability. Little changes in air composition, temperature, and humidity can affect the path of least resistance the lightning leader pursues from the cloud. This natural unpredictability makes it difficult to forecast exactly where lightning will strike, therefore complicating efforts to shield buildings and people from damage. But knowing the elements affecting the route of lightning has helped to enhance lightning protection systems and finds use in disciplines ranging from electrical engineering to chaos theory.