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(Created page with "== Introduction == A lightning rod is a metal rod or conductor mounted on top of a building and connected to the ground through a wire, designed to protect the structure from lightning strikes. When a lightning strike occurs, the rod provides a low-resistance path for the electrical discharge to travel to the ground, thereby preventing damage to the building. The concept of the lightning rod was first introduced by Benjamin Franklin in the 18th century, and it h...") |
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Modern lightning rods are typically made of highly conductive materials such as copper or aluminum. These materials are chosen for their ability to conduct electricity efficiently and withstand the high temperatures generated by a lightning strike. The rod is usually pointed at the top to facilitate the ionization of the surrounding air, which helps to attract the lightning strike. The rod is connected to a grounding system through a series of conductors, which are designed to carry the electrical discharge safely to the ground. | Modern lightning rods are typically made of highly conductive materials such as copper or aluminum. These materials are chosen for their ability to conduct electricity efficiently and withstand the high temperatures generated by a lightning strike. The rod is usually pointed at the top to facilitate the ionization of the surrounding air, which helps to attract the lightning strike. The rod is connected to a grounding system through a series of conductors, which are designed to carry the electrical discharge safely to the ground. | ||
[[Image:Detail-79551.jpg|thumb|center|A copper lightning rod installed on the roof of a building, with a clear sky in the background.]] | |||
== Installation and Maintenance == | == Installation and Maintenance == |