Electric field, Equipotential surfaces

AI Thread Summary
The electric field in the atmosphere decreases with altitude, reaching about 100 V/m near the Earth's surface, yet individuals do not experience electric shocks when stepping outside due to the distortion of equipotential surfaces. The human body acts as a conductor, aligning with the Earth's equipotential surface, preventing any potential difference that could cause shock. Concerns were raised about whether a person falling with a parachute would experience a shock, as they would be moving perpendicularly to the equipotential surfaces. However, it is noted that once electrons begin to flow, the voltage collapses around conductive bodies, mitigating the risk of shock. Overall, the interaction between the electric field and equipotential surfaces explains the lack of electric shock in these scenarios.
Prashasti
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Question :
The top of the atmosphere is at about 400 kV with respect to the surface of the Earth, corresponding to an electric field that decreases with altitude. Near the surface of the Earth, the field is about 100 V/m. Why then we do not get electric shock as we step outside our house into the open?


What has been given in the answer:
When we step outside our house, the equipotential surfaces get distorted and since our body is a conductor, it acts as a part of the Earth. Thus, our body and the Earth form an equipotential surface.

Now, it means that equipotential surfaces around the Earth are concentric with the Earth.
So, accordingly, won't a man falling with a parachute get a shock as he would be falling perpendicularly to the equipotential surfaces and along the electric field?
 
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As soon as a few electrons begin to flow, the voltage collapses in the vicinity of a conductive body.
 
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