What factor determines the severity of an electric shock?

The severity of an electric shock is primarily determined by the current flowing through the body. Current, measured in amperes, is the actual flow of electric charge and has a direct relationship with the effects it can produce on the human body.

When a person comes into contact with an electrical source, the amount of current that passes through their body can lead to various physiological effects, ranging from a mild tingling sensation to severe injuries, cardiac arrest, or even death. The human body's resistance plays a significant role in how much current flows; lower resistance typically results in higher current flow.

In considering the other factors, while the duration of exposure can influence the overall outcome of an electric shock, it is the current that directly engages the body's systems. The color of the circuit does not affect the severity of the shock, as it is irrelevant to electrical characteristics. Similarly, focusing solely on the type of contact resistance overlooks the crucial aspect of how much current actually flows through the body, as resistance merely alters the current based on Ohm's Law. Therefore, the flowing current is the determining factor for the severity of an electric shock.