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riddles >> general problem-solving / chatting / whatever >> Static Electricity and sweater shocks
(Message started by: mfirmata on Nov 19th, 2007, 9:27am)

Title: Static Electricity and sweater shocks
Post by mfirmata on Nov 19th, 2007, 9:27am
Now that's it's getting cold in Connecticut, people have pulled their sweaters out of the closets and started wearing them around.  

It's always funny to watch as some people hesitantly open up doors where they have to touch something metal.  I've seen people jump when they get a small electric shock.

Are all people likely to experience the same amount and levels of shocks?  That is, are some people more likely to build up more static charge? (Maybe due to their gait, clothing, body composition, etc.)

Just wondering, because it seems like everytime I get out of chair at work I get a shock and no one around seems to get a shock when they get out of their chairs.

Title: Re: Static Electricity and sweater shocks
Post by Grimbal on Nov 19th, 2007, 1:15pm
I had that problem.  I noticed that it depends what shoes I wear.  With some shoes, no problem.  With others, I get a shock after just sitting a while at my computer.  Now I changed office, with a different chair and different flooring, and I don't have the problem any more.

Title: Re: Static Electricity and sweater shocks
Post by ima1trkpny on Nov 19th, 2007, 8:59pm
Yeah, the kind of short dense carpeting used in most office type situations is generally a great way to build up static charge. Something that should reduce your accumulation is make sure you aren't dragging your feet around (even when shifting around in computer chair, etc). Rubberized soles should help too.

<Edit: ok, suggestion amended.>

Title: Re: Static Electricity and sweater shocks
Post by Grimbal on Nov 20th, 2007, 1:37am
In my case, the rubber shoes made it worse.



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