Geology In
April 15, 2023
Never-before-seen ‘crystal-like matter’ hidden in a chunk of fossilized lightning is probably a brand new mineral
Never-before-seen ‘crystal-like matter’ hidden in a chunk of fossilized lightning is probably a brand new mineral. The potential new mineral was discovered in a chunk of “fossilized lightning,” or fulgurite, that was left behind when a tree in Florida was struck by lightning.
Lightning – a short-lasting but very high-energy event – can cause unique chemical reactions resulting in new minerals. Similar minerals can be found in meteorites and asteroids, likely the results of high temperatures and pressure conditions during the impacts between celestial bodies. Fulgurites can be seen as a transitional form between space minerals and minerals found on Earth.