A Spark of Genius by Lexi Kay

A Spark of Genius

Contrived

Lexi Kay

 

This image shows an electrical discharge that occurs when a kitchen appliance is unplugged from the wall socket while the device is powered on. The electrical circuit was suddenly interrupted when I yanking out the plug, and a quick flash of blue and orange light occurred. When plugged in, the appliance is able to operate because of the electric field that is created between the metal prongs of the plug and the outlet in the wall. This electric field allows the flow of electrons, or negatively charged atomic particles, through the circuit. When the plug is removed from the wall, the air in between the prongs and the outlet acts as an insulator between them. Air acts as a conductor and allows the movement of electrons through a narrow arcing channel. Though the arc of electrons cannot be seen in this photograph, the heat and light produced as air breaks down is visible. The heat is visible as an orange and blue glow in the photograph. The spark produced here is similar to a bolt of lightning that extends between a cloud and the earth, but on a much smaller scale.

Done