Electric potential between hands

AI Thread Summary
When holding voltmeter contacts in each hand, a reading of approximately 0.2V can occur due to several factors. This potential difference may arise from static electricity, particularly if there has been friction, such as rubbing socks on carpet, which can generate a charge. Additionally, the presence of moisture on the skin can enhance conductivity, potentially leading to variations in ion distribution between the hands. The discussion also notes that individuals are influenced by ambient electric fields from power supplies, which can affect measurements. It's important to recognize that using a DC voltmeter in this context may yield misleading readings due to these external influences.
Kglocc
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When I hold voltmeter contacts in my hands, (one in each) the meter reads about .2V
I know it isn't that significant, but what could be the explanation for this? Are we charged? Why would there be potential between my left and right hand? Or is it just a fluke from rubbing my socks on the carpet or something? hmm I'm going to go check that last theory out, but I still want to shoot this question out.
 
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its just moisture that makes the conductivity. I guess I've got more ions on one side than the other so I there's potential as well.
 
Kglocc said:
When I hold voltmeter contacts in my hands, (one in each) the meter reads about .2V

I'm only 0.03V so I'm much more normal :p
 
We are simply bathed by alternative electric fields that come from electric power supply.
When measured by a DC voltmeter it will give some wrong value.
 

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