Giving a jump start to a car - how does the circuit become complete?

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Jump-starting a car involves connecting the positive terminal of a charged battery to the positive terminal of a dead battery, while the negative terminal of the charged battery is connected to the body of the dead car to avoid sparks near the battery. This method creates a parallel circuit, allowing current to flow from the charged battery to the dead one, with the ground connection ensuring safety from potential hydrogen gas explosions. It is crucial to keep the engine of the charged car running to maximize charging efficiency and prevent voltage spikes when disconnecting. Proper connections and clean terminals are essential for effective jump-starting, as poor connections can lead to inadequate current flow. Following recommended procedures minimizes risks and enhances the chances of successfully reviving a dead battery.
  • #61
Shut off the good car before boosting.
 
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  • #62
essenmein said:
(don't try this at home... or something)
I've done it.
 

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