Static Electricity Explained

Definition:

Static electricity is the buildup of electrical charges on the surface of some object or material.  Static electricity is common and usually created when materials are pulled apart or rubbed together, causing positive (+) charges to collect on one material and negative (−) charges on the other surface.

Results:

Sparks, shocks or materials clinging together.


Why:

When using headphone in an area where the air is dry, it is easy to build up static electricity.  It is very possible for your ear to receive a small discharge from the headphones.  This condition is very similar to dragging your feet across a carpet and receiving a static shock by touching a doorknob.  Rather than the static charge building up on your body, the charge builds up on the device that the headphones are connected to.

Solutions:

• Try raising the moisture level in the area by using a portable humidifier or adjusting the humidity control.
• There are various anti-static sprays that can be sprayed into the air that can be used to reduce static.
• If you have dry skin, try anti-static hand lotion.
• Also try wearing different clothes. Clothes with synthetic fibers are more likely to hold a static charge.