Fulminology

Fulminology is the study of thunder and lightning. It is a branch of meteorology that focuses on the atmospheric electrical phenomena associated with thunderstorms. Fulminologists investigate the formation, behavior, and effects of lightning strikes, as well as the acoustic waves generated by lightning, known as thunder.

The primary goals of fulminology include understanding the physical processes that lead to charge separation within thunderclouds, the mechanisms by which lightning discharges occur, and the electrical characteristics of lightning. Researchers also study the impact of lightning on human safety, infrastructure, and the environment. This includes assessing the risk of lightning-induced fires, damage to power grids and electronic equipment, and the potential for lightning to trigger avalanches or other natural hazards.

Methods used in fulminology involve a combination of direct observation, remote sensing technologies like lightning detection networks and radar, and laboratory experiments. These studies contribute to improved forecasting of thunderstorms, the development of lightning protection systems, and a deeper understanding of atmospheric electricity. The term "fulminology" itself is derived from the Latin word "fulmen," meaning lightning or thunderbolt.