AC current & how electocution happens

In summary, the discussion is about the dangers of electrocution from AC electricity. The electric field from AC electricity causes the heart to try and beat 60 times per second, which can be harmful to a person's body. The ground only provides the possibility for the charge to move back and forth, and AC electricity can also cause the heart to beat due to the changing electric field. However, an electric field only causes ions to move slowly and a person should be cautious when dealing with high-current DC.
  • #1
willouj
2
0
Am I understanding this correctly?

If a person is touching the hot wire in their house (AC) and they are grounded ... this completes the circuit. In AC electrons move back and forth a few centimeters, 60 times each second (60Hz). Therefore, if electocution happens, it is a lot of charge moving back and forth in the persons body that can harm them ... not a lot of charge traveling from the wall socket through a person and into the ground right? The ground just provides the possibility for the charge to move back and forth?
 
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  • #2
Moving charges don't matter
With AC electricity the problem is that the changing electric field causes your heart to try and beat 60 times a second.
 
  • #3
How does the electric field make the heart want to beat 60 times per second? Doesn't the changing electric field cause charges to move back and forth 60 times per second?

Thanks
Josh
 
  • #4
The electric field causes electrons (and ions to move) but only a very small distance and only very slowly.
An electric field is what makes your heart beat but the field is normally generated by chemical differences (chemical reactions and ion channels and sodium ions etc) an external electric field causes the ions to move and signal your heart to beat.
 
  • #5
Good response, Mgb. It should be pointed out though, that messing about with high-current DC isn't a great idea either. I would not want to be, for instance, the only conductive path between a vehicle and the negative battery terminal when someone is trying to start it.
 

Related to AC current & how electocution happens

1. What is AC current and how does it differ from DC current?

AC (alternating current) is a type of electrical current that periodically reverses direction, while DC (direct current) flows in only one direction. AC current is the type of electricity that is used in most homes and buildings, while DC current is commonly used in batteries and electronic devices.

2. How is AC current produced?

AC current is produced by rotating a magnet inside a coil of wire. This motion causes a change in the magnetic field, which in turn creates an electrical current in the wire. This process is called electromagnetic induction and is the basis for most power generation.

3. What is the frequency of AC current and why is it important?

The frequency of AC current is the number of times it alternates direction in one second, and is measured in Hertz (Hz). In most countries, the standard frequency is 50 or 60 Hz. The frequency is important because it determines the rate at which electrons move back and forth, which affects the performance of electrical devices.

4. How does electrocution happen?

Electrocution occurs when a person comes into contact with a source of electricity and a current passes through their body. The severity of the injury depends on the type of current, the amount of current, and the duration of exposure. AC current is particularly dangerous because it can cause muscle contractions and interfere with the heart's rhythm.

5. What safety precautions should be taken to avoid electrocution?

To avoid electrocution, it is important to always follow safety guidelines when working with electricity. This includes making sure all electrical devices are properly grounded, using GFCI outlets in areas where water is present, and never touching electrical appliances with wet hands. It is also important to never attempt to repair electrical devices unless you are a trained professional.

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