When I see an electrical arc ,what am I really seeing?

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SUMMARY

An electrical arc is not electricity itself but rather the visual manifestation of ionized gases in the air that emit electromagnetic (EM) energy. When observing an arc, such as the one produced at the 500 kV Eldorado substation near Boulder City, Nevada, the colors seen—blue, white, and purple—are due to the interaction of electricity with air, resulting in the ionization of gases. This phenomenon highlights the fact that electricity is invisible; the arc is merely a byproduct of its presence.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of ionization and its effects on gases
  • Familiarity with electromagnetic energy and its properties
  • Basic knowledge of electrical engineering principles
  • Awareness of high-voltage systems, such as substations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the process of gas ionization and its role in electrical arcs
  • Explore the properties of electromagnetic radiation and its interaction with matter
  • Study high-voltage electrical systems and safety protocols
  • Investigate visual phenomena associated with electrical discharges
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Electrical engineers, physics students, safety professionals, and anyone interested in the science behind electrical phenomena and high-voltage systems.

leftyguitarjo
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When an electrical arc occurs, is the blue/white/purple arc the electricity itself, or is it a result of the electricity interacting with something in the air?
 
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You are seeing ionized gases in the air radiating EM energy. Try this one!

500 kV Eldorado substation near Boulder City, Nevada
http://www.arcfault.org/video.htm
 
Last edited by a moderator:
You cannot "see" electricity because that's what facilitates the whole "seeing" thing. As said you're looking at its result.
 
photons
 
turbo-1 said:
Try this one!

WOW! That was spectacular! :biggrin:
 

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