Lightning depends on the electric field exceeding the dielectric insulation of the air. Some random charge floating around eventually forms a current, and that

Lightning depends on the electric field exceeding the dielectric insulation of the air. Some random charge floating around eventually forms a current, and that is the "random" path the lightning bolt takes to discharge. Lightning rods are designed with very sharp tips, the high curvature of which leads to a higher local electric field. Thus, a lightning rod works to discharge to ground an area of air around the point and prevent a larger buildup of voltage. [0] https://physics.stackexchange.com/questions/184374/why-do-lightning-rods-have-a-sharp-point-at-the-top/184394 https://physics.stackexchange.com/questions/184374/why-do-li...