For centuries, scientists have puzzled over how life began on Earth. Many have supported the idea that a powerful lightning bolt striking the ocean may have triggered the first organic molecules.

The buildup of static charge often occurs due to friction. At a microscopic level, even smooth surfaces are rough and irregular.

Listen to the full series on BBC Sounds. Electrons are negatively charged particles and they transfer energy through wires as electricity. Charge close chargeProperty of matter that causes a force ...