4. Ball Lightning is Always Red or Orange
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Although the common picture of ball lightning is one of a brilliant red or orange orb, scientists are trying to clear this false impression. Actually, ball lightning has been recorded in a rainbow of colours, ranging from white to blue to green to even purple. Ball lightning study depends much on the colour change since it can reveal hints regarding its composition and the energy processes involved. Scientists are looking at how various atmospheric gases, temperatures, and electrical conditions could affect ball lightning's colour. Some ideas propose that the colour could be connected to the ionisation of particular elements found in the air or soil where ball lightning develops. The belief regarding the colour of ball lightning has maybe resulted in misidentification of the phenomena and underreporting of occurrences not matching the predicted red or orange hue. Scientists want to inspire more accurate reporting and data collecting by informing the public about the variety in colour range of ball lightning. Furthermore relevant for plasma physics and possible technological uses motivated by ball lightning is knowledge of the elements influencing its colour.
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