Anyone want to explain electric eels to me?

In summary, electric eels are a type of fish found in South America that can generate strong electric shocks for hunting and self-defense. This is due to their specialized cells called electrocytes, which release bursts of electric current. The strength of their shocks can range from 100 to 860 volts and while they are not typically dangerous to humans, they can cause harm if touched. However, their electricity is not a reliable source for human use.
  • #1
wasteofo2
478
2
I'm really curious how electric eels can shock things and the mechanism behind it. How do they build up the charge they use? How do they controll when it's released? Can they control in what direction it's released? Where is it released from? Why doesn't it harm them at all?

Thanks for satisfying my curiosity,
Jacob
 
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  • #2
http://soma.npa.uiuc.edu/labs/nelson/electric_fish.html [Broken]
https://www.physicsforums.com/editpost.php?do=editpost&p=278149 [Broken]


Seems quite informative. Of course, I'm sure you can use Google too.
 
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  • #3


Sure, Jacob! Electric eels are truly fascinating creatures. They are actually not true eels, but a type of fish that can generate electric shocks. These shocks are used for hunting and self-defense.

The electric eel has specialized organs called electrocytes, which are stacked like batteries in its body. These electrocytes are able to produce a high voltage charge, up to 600 volts in some species. When the eel wants to use this charge, it sends a signal from its brain to these electrocytes, causing them to discharge all at once. This creates a strong electric shock that can stun prey or ward off predators.

The direction and strength of the electric shock can be controlled by the eel, as it can vary the amount of electricity sent to each electrocyte. This allows them to aim their shock in a specific direction and control the strength of the shock based on the situation.

The electric shock is released through the eel's tail, which acts as a positive pole, while the rest of its body acts as a negative pole. This creates a circuit when the eel is in the water, allowing the electricity to flow through its prey or predator.

As for why it doesn't harm the eel, they have a specialized nervous system and thick skin that protects them from their own electric shocks. Additionally, their shocks are short bursts, so they do not have a prolonged exposure to the electricity.

I hope this helps answer your questions about electric eels. They truly are incredible creatures and their ability to generate electricity is just one of their many unique adaptations.
 

What are electric eels?

Electric eels are a type of fish that are native to South America. They are known for their ability to generate strong electric shocks, which they use for hunting and self-defense.

How do electric eels generate electricity?

Electric eels have specialized cells called electrocytes that are arranged like a battery. When triggered by the eel's nervous system, these cells release a burst of electric current, similar to how a battery releases energy when connected to a circuit.

How strong are the electric shocks from electric eels?

The electric shocks from electric eels can range from 100 to 860 volts, depending on the size and species of the eel. This is enough to stun or kill prey, as well as defend against predators.

Are electric eels dangerous to humans?

Electric eels are not typically dangerous to humans, as they only use their electric shocks for hunting and self-defense. However, if a person comes into contact with an electric eel, they can receive a powerful shock that can cause muscle spasms and even cardiac arrest.

Can electric eels be used as a source of electricity?

While electric eels do generate electricity, they are not a reliable source of electricity for human use. The amount of electricity they produce is relatively small and difficult to harness, making it impractical for use as a power source.

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