Question

Rather theory about electromagnetism.
Let's consider there is soldier lying in front lines of battlefield during WWI contacting his base through radio signal. Would there be an effect on quality of signal wether there was a lightning storm or not?

Answer 1

Good question. I would like to see this answered.

Answer 2

I think it would have an effect.
1) Lightning emits a lot of different properties electromagnetic waves.
2) I saw in movies that planes have bad radio connection because of thunderstrms, but you know, it's hollywood afterall.

Answer 3

Yeah yeah

Answer 4

@UnkleRhaukus @Vincent-Lyon.Fr @CliffSedge

Answer 5

The signal to reach the military base, will reflect into ionosphere.
Air is a dielectric and its Electromagnetic breakdown field is 3x10**6 V/m
During lightnings the are electric field of this order, and If you compare this magnitude with radio signal electric field the noise in the transmission will be huge.
I would trust more the word of a amateur radio operator than a physicist.

Answer 6

True, asked my dad because he was studying radio engineering during his days and he admitted that it gives signal disturbances. I guess it's closed case then.

Answer 7

noise !