Ever Felt Sudden Electric Shock While Touching Someone or Something? Here's Why

It is called static electricity and is very common. The static electricity refers to the accumulation of electric charges on the surface of an object or the human body. This phenomenon usually arises when two distinct materials come into contact and rub against each other. For example, when you walk on a carpet while wearing socks, your body acquires additional electrons from the carpet. These tiny particles contribute to the formation of electricity.

The charge on the object can be negative or positive, and it occurs when the atoms of a certain material gain or lose electrons on it. When you touch the other person or object, the excess charge transfers rapidly from your body to them. This quick transfer causes a small shock.

These static shocks happen more often in winters because the air is typically drier than the summer air. The humidity levels in the air aid in dispersing the electrical charge from your body. Contrastingly, when the air is dry, there is no medium to dissipate the charge, leading to its accumulation.

The electron leads to form on the surface of our skin as the skin dries up. In summers, the humidity in the air discharges the negative electrons, and we can't sense the charge much.

In winters, the possibility of static electricity is raised due to the indoor heaters, which make the air even drier. That's why you experience more shock when it's cold.

These small shocks can be uncomfortable, but they are not harmful.
The energy released during a static shock is quite low, enough to create a brief sensation.
However, in certain situations, particularly around flammable materials or sensitive electronic devices, static electricity can pose significant risks. Consequently, businesses like gas stations and manufacturers of computer chips take extensive measures to prevent its occurrence.