When a thunderstorm is approaching, sailors at sea sometimes observe a phenomenon called “St. Elmo’s fire,” a bluish flickering light at the tips of masts. What causes this? Why does it occur at the tips of masts? Why is the effect most pronounced when the masts are wet? (Hint: Seawater is a good conductor of electricity.)

When a thunderstorm is approaching, sailors at sea sometimes observe a phenomenon called “St. Elmo’s fire,” a bluish flickering light at the tips of masts. What causes this? Why does it occur at the tips of masts? Why is the effect most pronounced when the masts are wet? (Hint: Seawater is a good conductor of electricity.)