36. When a person touches an electrically live part of an appliance, A step potential occurs
Answer and Solution
Answer:
"When a person walks on an electrically conducting and live surface potential between two feet.
"When a person touches an electrically live part of an appliance, A step potential occurs when a person walks on an electrically conducting and live surface potential between two feet.
Step potential, also known as step voltage, is a hazardous electrical phenomenon that occurs when a person stands near an energized grounded object, particularly during electrical faults like downed power lines or faulty grounding systems. It refers to the voltage difference between a person’s feet, which can cause a dangerous current to flow through their body.
- Definition: Step potential is the voltage difference between two points on the ground, typically separated by a distance roughly equal to a human stride (approximately 1 meter or 3 feet). When a fault current enters the ground, it spreads out, creating a voltage gradient.
- Voltage Gradient: When a fault occurs, such as a downed power line, the fault current spreads through the ground, creating a voltage gradient. This means that the voltage is highest near the fault and decreases as you move away from it.
- Step Potential: The difference in voltage between two points (typically the feet of a person) can result in dangerous currents flowing through the body if a person stands on ground with varying potentials.
- Safety Implications: Understanding this gradient is crucial for safety, as it highlights the risks associated with approaching energized equipment or areas affected by electrical faults.