Lightning forms through a process involving the separation of electrical charges within a thunderstorm cloud. Here is how it happens:

• Inside a thunderstorm, turbulent winds cause collisions between water droplets, ice particles, and hail. These collisions result in the transfer of electrical charges, with smaller ice particles typically gaining positive charge and larger graupel or hail particles gaining negative charge

• As a result, the cloud becomes electrically polarized, with negative charges accumulating near the base of the cloud and positive charges building up near the top

• This charge separation creates a strong electric field between the cloud and the ground, as well as within the cloud itself. The electric field grows until it overcomes the insulating properties of the air

• When the electric field becomes strong enough, a rapid discharge of electricity occurs, forming a lightning bolt. This discharge can happen within the cloud, between clouds, or between the cloud and the ground

• The lightning channel forms as ionized air creates a conductive path for the electric current to flow. The negative charges typically move downward from the cloud, while positive charges move upward from the ground or other parts of the cloud until they meet and complete the circuit

• The intense heat from the lightning causes the surrounding air to rapidly expand and create the sound of thunder

In summary, lightning is the result of charge separation within a storm cloud caused by collisions of ice and water particles, leading to a strong electric field and a subsequent electrical discharge through the atmosphere