ELi5: What causes the sound of Thunder and how can it be so loud?

Question

ELi5: What causes the sound of Thunder and how can it be so loud?

In: Earth Science

Answer 1

Lightning is created by a build up of static electricity at the base of a cloud, when this charge is released it transforms the air into superheated plasma which glows brilliantly. The heat created in the lightning causes the air to expand creating a shockwave which we hear and feel as thunder. – https://youtu.be/NQiqXdEHL_Q