Hot Stuff

Q: Which is hotter - a lightning bolt or the surface of the sun?

A: A lightning bolt

When we think about extreme heat, the Sun often comes to mind. Its surface, known as the photosphere, burns at an incredible temperature of approximately 5,500°C (9,932°F). However, there’s another fiery contender much closer to home: a lightning bolt.

Surprisingly, lightning bolts are significantly hotter than the Sun’s surface. A single lightning strike can reach temperatures of up to 30,000°C (54,000°F)—about five times hotter than the Sun’s photosphere! This staggering heat is generated by the immense electrical energy compressed into a very narrow channel of air during a lightning strike.

So, why doesn’t this extraordinary heat leave lasting damage on the ground or in the air? The key lies in its duration. A lightning bolt typically lasts only a few microseconds, making its extreme heat fleeting. In contrast, the Sun’s surface maintains its searing temperature continuously, sustaining life on Earth and powering our solar system.

In summary, while the Sun’s surface is a constant source of intense heat, a lightning bolt holds the title for being momentarily much hotter. It's a fascinating reminder of the natural extremes that exist both far away in space and right here on Earth!