Is static electricity a source of energy?

Answer 1

Yes, it can. The "normal" static electricity we usually encounter isn't lethal. If we shuffle across a rug on a dry day, we can get a nasty zap! when we reach for the door knob. But note that lightning is static electricity, and it can kill or disable individuals with ridiculous ease.

Answer 2

Of course it can. Many cars have a rubber-coated metal strip hanging from the rear bumper to discharge static as it contacts the ground. Large aircraft have static dischargers near the wingtips which help to dissipate electro-static build-up. Earthing straps are fitted to aircraft whilst refueling for the same reason, and you should use an earthing strap yourself if working on electronics such as a PC to prevent the build-up of static which may damage sensitive components.

Answer 3

Static electricity is usually seen in a form which contains too little energy to be worth collecting. For example the audible static electricity generated by pulling your jumper over your head is definitely much less than the energy produced by your muscles.

An exception is the energy of a lightning strike which might be a million volts at 50,000 amps for 10 microseconds, which is 106 x 5x104 x 10-5 or 500,000 joules, which is about one sixth of a kilowatt-hour, worth around £0.03.

Answer 4

Static electricity can have massive voltages. To learn more follow the web link below.

Answer 5

It is not normally a useable source of energy for everyday needs