The equations for the Earth-ionosphere cavity resonance fields are given and some of the approximations used in their derivation are indicated. Typical electric and magnetic 5 to 20 Hz Schumann resonance field intensities are listed and compared with the level of other natural and man-made electromagnetic noise. Applications of Schumann resonances to thunderstorm location and measurement of global lightning activity are reviewed briefly. Ionospheric conductivity profiles appropriate for this frequency range are discussed and the importance of atmospheric conductivity below 60 km is pointed out.