J.J. wrote:
"2.) Does lightning discharge over one path or many paths?"

For me, seeing is believing. There are many reports and photos showing
several paths between the clouds and the earth during a lone lightning
event. I would not swear perfect synchronization on all routes.

Best regards, Richard Harrison, KB5WZI

J.J. wrote:
"This talk about "single point ground" can be confusing, especially when
the solution involves multiple ground rods. I believe we are really
saying that the station (equipment) should be connected to ground at
only one point--."

I agree. It`s to avoid the equipment becoming a link between grounds
which can become points of great potential difference. The equipment
would likely burn. Great finesse may be needed to avoid such a nexus.

Best regards, Richard Harrison, KB5WZI

On 1 Mar 2005 15:39:04 -0800, wrote:

I am trying to gain a better understanding of the issues associated
with lightning and grounding,



Thanks in advance,

-JJ

Go to http://www.arrl.org and do a search for the keywords, "lightning
and grounding"

Brings up about 150 articles.

bob
k5qwg

J.J. wrote:
"4.) Does the size of an antenna affect the probability of it being
struck by lightning?"

Probably. It`s a bigger target, more likely to have some part nearer a
highly charged area of the atmosphere. A short distance makes a high
gradient. If the antenna has sharp points it is more likely to trigger
lightning.

Best regards, Richard Harrison, KB5WZI

J.J. wrote:
"Is it wise to place a lightning rod (or rods) right under the
antenna---?"

Yes. It is a good practice to help nature to neutralize its excess
charge in the shortest time and distance. The sooner this gigantic force
is diluted, the safer everything and everyone is. But, if your outside
plant is impervious to damage, you may choose to put your arc gaps and
ground rods back at the station ends of your transmission lines.

Best regards, Richard Harrison, KB5WZI

All,

Thanks for the replies. One clarification; I meant "ground rod" in 5.)
above, NOT "lightning rod". It should read:

5.) Finally, consider an amateur antenna on a pole, located some
distance from the service entrance of the house. Let's say there is a
copper cold water pipe right at the service entrance. Is it wise to
place a ground rod (or rods) right under the antenna, place an
arrestor on the coax there and then another arrestor where the coax
enters at the service entrance? Is a ground wire needed between the
remote ground rod and the cold water pipe?

Thanks,

-JJ

Look up Martin Uman's books on lightning. Very informative.