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Lightning Conductor |
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The lightning conductor was invented in 1752 by Benjamin
Franklin. The principal function of a lightning conductor is to prevent
lightning, or any rate reduce its severity, by discharging the cloud
harmlessly by "point discharge". The spikes direct a stream of
positively charged air at the cloud above, rendering it harmless; if
lightning does occur the discharge will not be so strong, and the metal
of the conductor is an easy path to earth. Thus the electricity passes
harmlessly through the conductor instead of tearing through the
building. More complicated devices may be fitted for protecting the
overhead wires carrying electric power-called "the grid" in
Great Britain- from damage by lightning
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