Lightning - Atmospheric Discharge

Lightning can occur during thunderstorms, dust storms, or volcanic eruptions. A typical lightning bolt carries a current of tens of thousands of amperes, heating the air in its path to 20,000°C in a fraction of a second. This rapid heating creates a shockwave, which is heard as thunder.

What natural events can lead to the occurrence of lightning?

What is the typical current carried by a lightning bolt?

How does a lightning bolt affect the air in its path?

What temperature can the air reach due to a lightning bolt?

What phenomenon is created as a result of the shockwave from lightning?