Saltwater Pool/lightning Scenario for computer game

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the effects of continuous lightning striking a large cube of saltwater in a DnD campaign scenario. It concludes that a swimmer located several meters below the surface will remain safe from the electrical current, as long as they do not ascend to the surface. However, if the swimmer rises above the water's surface, they risk being electrocuted by the lightning strike. The conversation also touches on the nature of magical lightning and its potential differences from conventional electricity.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic electrical principles, specifically regarding conductivity in water.
  • Knowledge of Dungeons & Dragons (DnD) mechanics and magic systems.
  • Familiarity with the properties of saltwater and its effects on electrical currents.
  • Concept of charge conservation in physics.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the effects of electricity in conductive liquids, focusing on saltwater.
  • Explore DnD rules regarding environmental hazards and magical effects.
  • Investigate the physics of lightning strikes and their behavior in different mediums.
  • Learn about the implications of charge conservation in electrical scenarios.
USEFUL FOR

Dungeons & Dragons Dungeon Masters, game designers, and anyone interested in the interaction of magic and physics within gaming scenarios.

mkultra
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TL;DR Summary: What would happen if a bolt of continuous lightning hit an enclosed saltwater space with someone swimming far below the surface?

Hello! I'm actually asking this as a DM for a DnD campaign. One of my players trapped a bad guy within a large (30m/side) freestanding cube of saltwater. This cube was then struck by a continuous bolt of lightning at one end. Would the electricity flow around the surface of the cube, leaving the swimmer largely unharmed, or would the current course through the cube and fry him? Thank you so much!!!
 
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The underwater swimmer will be safe, but only while they remain beyond a few metres from the point of the strike. If they then rise out of the surface, the strike may transfer to them, and kill them. If they do not come to the surface, they will drown.
 
Is magic lightning even electricity? It seems not to burn wizardly fingertips.

And what about charge conservation?
"Wizard, are you sure you got him?"
"I'm positive"
 
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