Which factor affects the current flowing through a person's body during an electric shock?

Study for the Electrical Theory Test. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The flow of current through a person's body during an electric shock is significantly influenced by both contact resistance and circuit voltage.

Contact resistance is affected by factors such as the condition of the skin (which can vary based on moisture levels, abrasions, or calluses) and the nature of the surfaces in contact with the skin. When a person encounters an electrical source, lower resistance at the point of contact allows more current to flow through the body. Circuit voltage is also crucial; a higher voltage can drive more current through the body, regardless of the resistance, adhering to Ohm's law (I = V/R).

While the moisture content of the body does indeed affect resistance (with wet skin allowing more current flow compared to dry skin), the overall potential for current flow is driven by both contact resistance and circuit voltage. The type of electrical device and the color of the wiring do not have a direct effect on how much current passes through a person during an electric shock. These factors may influence the safety precautions and operational characteristics of the devices, but they do not change the fundamental electrical principles governing current flow through the body.

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