this post was submitted on 17 Apr 2024
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I seem to remember as a young child being told that it is safe to touch a Van de Graff generator (for the hair demonstration), but that if you let go before it is safe you will get a nasty shock. I know a bit more about electricity now, and I'm a little skeptical now. Is it possible to get a shock from letting go of something?

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[–] [email protected] 1 points 4 months ago (1 children)

If the generator is running, it's still adding more charge, so you will be instantly at different potentials

[–] [email protected] 1 points 4 months ago (1 children)

I see. Would there also be an arc if you put your hand near the generator while it was running, then?

[–] [email protected] 2 points 4 months ago

As long as the potential is great enough to break down the dielectric of air yes.