Development, Structure, and Trends in Lightning Research: A Comprehensive Bibliometric Analysis
Ng, Sai-Leung ; Chou, Kun-Hsuan
Année de publication
2025
Lightning plays a critical role in atmospheric dynamics, climate systems, and public safety. Yet, the research landscape, including thematic focuses, trends, research communities, and collaboration networks, remains underexplored. This study addresses this gap by conducting a bibliometric analysis of 4419 journal articles on lightning. The results indicate a notable rise in research output in recent decades, driven by technological advances and growing recognition of lightning's environmental and societal implications. Seven thematic clusters were identified, ranging from fundamental studies on lightning's physical processes to broader interdisciplinary concerns. Specialized research communities focus on distinct subfields, with publications appearing in geophysical, meteorological, and multidisciplinary journals. Global collaborations are led by the United States, China, and Europe, with increasing contributions from other regions. This comprehensive overview provides insights for scientists and policymakers who seek to navigate and contribute to the rapidly expanding field of lightning research.</div>
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