Question

If you are caught outdoors in a thunderstorm, why should you not stand under a tree? 1. a tree is likely to be hit by lightning because it provides a path of less resistance between the cloud overhead and the ground. 2. a tree is likely to be hit by lightning because you and the tree now form a polarized system. 3. a tree attracts electrically polarized air molecules that can have a harmful effect on your body. 4. the tree has more resistance than the air and thus is likely to be hit by lightning. 5. a tree is likely to accumulate an electric charge that can kill you if you touch the tree.

Answer 1

The answer is 1. A tree is likely to be hit by lightning because it provides a path of less resistance between the ground and the cloud overhead. The ground and the tree are raised to a high potential relative to the ground that is further away.
When you stand under a tree and it is hit by lightning, there is a high possibility that the lightning will hit you too