Ham Radio Extra Class Practice Test 2026 - Free Extra Class License Exam Questions and Study Guide

The preferred method for connecting a lightning rod to your ground system is through a low-impedance connection. This is crucial because a low-impedance path ensures that electrical currents, such as those from a lightning strike, can flow safely and efficiently to ground without causing damage or triggering hazards.

In the event of a lightning strike, the high energy and surge should be effectively dissipated into the ground to minimize potential harm to structures and equipment. A low-impedance connection decreases the resistance in the path, allowing for a more effective grounding system that can handle the extremely high voltages associated with lightning strikes.

Using flexible wire connections or soldered joints may introduce unwanted resistance or potential weak points in the grounding system that could impede the discharge process. Furthermore, high-resistance materials would conflict with the goal of providing a reliable grounding path, as they would increase the resistance and could lead to inefficiencies in safely dissipating lightning energy. Thus, the emphasis on a low-impedance connection aligns with best practices in lightning protection systems.