What method is used to estimate the distance of a lightning strike?

The method for estimating the distance of a lightning strike involves counting the seconds from when you see the flash of lightning until you hear the thunder, often referred to as the "flash-to-bang" method. The speed of sound is approximately 343 meters per second (or about 1,125 feet per second) under normal atmospheric conditions. Since light travels much faster than sound, there is a noticeable delay between seeing the lightning and hearing the thunder.

The commonly used approximation is that for every five seconds counted between seeing the flash and hearing the thunder, the lightning strike is about one mile away. Therefore, if you count ten seconds, the strike is approximately two miles away. This method allows people to gauge how far away a thunderstorm is, which is crucial for safety during thunderstorms.

Other options do not accurately estimate distance in relation to lightning strikes. Counting seconds until another lightning strike occurs does not provide useful distance information. Calculating distance based on temperature changes is not directly related to lightning and does not apply to this context. Estimating based on the brightness of the lightning is also not reliable since brightness can be influenced by various factors, including distance, atmospheric conditions, and the intensity of the strike. Thus, the most effective and commonly taught method