Raikastetut

Raikastetut, also known as "lightning-struck" or "fulgurites," are natural glass tubes formed when lightning strikes sand, soil, or rock. The intense heat generated by the lightning bolt melts and fuses the surrounding material, creating a hollow tube with a glassy exterior and a sandy or rocky interior. The process is rapid, occurring in a fraction of a second, and the resulting fulgurites can vary in size and shape depending on the composition of the struck material and the intensity of the lightning strike.

Fulgurites are typically found in areas with high lightning activity, such as deserts, grasslands, and forests. They can be several centimeters to several meters in length and are often curved or twisted due to the movement of the lightning bolt. The glassy exterior of fulgurites is usually dark brown or black, while the interior can be light-colored and may contain fragments of the original material.

Fulgurites are of interest to scientists and collectors alike, as they provide insights into the geological and meteorological processes that occur during lightning strikes. They are also valued for their unique appearance and are sometimes used in jewelry or as decorative items. However, due to their rarity and the destructive nature of lightning, fulgurites are not commonly encountered and are often difficult to find.