Multiple choice

What process causes the ground to become positively charged during a thunderstorm?

  1. induction by the negatively-charged cloud

  2. induction by the positively-charged cloud

  3. contact with lightning

  4. negatively-charged raindrops

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
A Correct answer
Explanation

The negative charges at the base of a storm cloud repel electrons in the ground, pushing them deeper and leaving the surface with a net positive charge. This process is known as electrostatic induction.