In message , Richard Clark
writes
On Thu, 15 Oct 2009 08:42:05 -0500, "Dave" wrote:

they said that was not such a good idea because lightning is
more likely to strike a path that goes straight to ground.

Hi Dave,

Did they happen to mention what a great deal it was for that lightning
to go directly to your radio instead?

I suppose their next argument is that lightning won't strike an
"insulated" antenna....

One reason for lightning conductors (and for grounding elevated
conductors, like radio antennas) is that it helps to stop a high
electrostatic charge from accumulating in the air immediately above
them. The intention is to PREVENT a direct lightning strike, rather than
conduct a strike to ground. Of course, if a direct strike DOES occur, an
antenna (and even a stout lightning conductor) may be seriously damaged.
--
Ian