Shocking Facts: 10 Things You Didn’t Know About Electricity
Posted on 13th February 2025 at 14:39
Electricity powers our lives in ways we often take for granted. From flipping a switch to charge our phones to complex power grids that keep cities running, it's an essential force that shapes modern life. But did you know that electricity is full of mysteries and surprising facts?
As a leading electrician in Stoke-on-Trent, LSB Electrical Solutions has seen firsthand how incredible—and sometimes strange—electricity can be. In this blog, we’re diving into 10 shocking facts about electricity that you probably didn’t know.
1. Electricity Travels at the Speed of Light—Almost!
Electricity moves nearly as fast as light, traveling at around 299,792 kilometers per second in a vacuum. However, in copper wires (which are commonly used in homes and businesses), electrons move much slower—only a few millimeters per second.
So, how do our lights turn on instantly when we flip a switch? It’s because of the electrical signal that moves at nearly half the speed of light, pushing electrons forward like a domino effect.
If you ever experience flickering lights or delays when switching on electrical appliances, it could be a sign of faulty wiring. An electrician in Stoke-on-Trent can diagnose the issue and ensure your home’s electrics are working at peak efficiency.
2. Lightning Is a Form of Electricity—And It's Extremely Powerful
Lightning bolts contain around 300 million volts of electricity—enough to power a 100-watt lightbulb for over three months! Each year, lightning strikes the Earth about 8.6 million times, and despite its power, only about 10% of people struck by lightning are killed.
Surprisingly, lightning doesn’t just happen during storms. It can occur in volcanic eruptions, snowstorms, and even intense wildfires.
Want to protect your home from electrical surges caused by storms? Installing surge protectors can help, and a qualified electrician in Stoke-on-Trent can ensure your home’s system is safeguarded.
3. Your Brain Runs on Electricity
Your body generates electricity! The human brain operates on electrical signals, using around 20 watts of power—enough to keep a dim lightbulb glowing.
Every thought, movement, and reflex in your body happens due to electrical impulses traveling through neurons at speeds up to 120 meters per second.
While your body naturally regulates this electricity, external electrical shocks can be dangerous. If you ever experience an electric shock from a faulty socket or appliance, it’s essential to call an electrician in Stoke-on-Trent to inspect your wiring and prevent future hazards.
4. Electricity Can Be Made from Living Organisms
Did you know that certain creatures can generate electricity? Electric eels produce shocks of up to 600 volts, which they use for self-defense and hunting. Other animals, like catfish and rays, also have electrical sensing abilities.
Scientists are even researching ways to harness electricity from bacteria! Some bacteria can naturally generate small amounts of electricity, leading to the development of bio-batteries—a potential clean energy source for the future.
5. A Single Power Station Can Supply Electricity for Millions
Power stations generate electricity by spinning turbines using steam, wind, or water. A large power station can produce enough energy to supply entire cities with power.
For example, the Drax Power Station in the UK produces 4,000 megawatts of power—enough for six million homes!
While power stations provide electricity on a large scale, homeowners often need local electrical upgrades. If you’re looking to improve your home’s efficiency, an electrician in Stoke-on-Trent can help upgrade your wiring, fuse board, and lighting systems.
6. Static Electricity Can Be More Powerful Than You Think
We’ve all felt the zap of static electricity when touching a doorknob or taking off a jumper in winter. But did you know that some static charges can reach up to 35,000 volts?
While the current is low (making it harmless), static electricity has real-world applications. It’s used in photocopiers, air purifiers, and even some types of paint sprayers.
However, static charges can sometimes cause issues in electrical circuits. If you experience frequent power surges, an electrician in Stoke-on-Trent can install surge protectors to prevent damage to your appliances.
7. Electricity Has Been Around for Billions of Years
Many people think electricity was "discovered" by Benjamin Franklin in 1752, but it has existed for billions of years. It’s a natural force, present in lightning, nervous systems, and even the Earth’s magnetic field.
In fact, ancient civilizations may have used electricity! The Baghdad Battery, an artifact from around 250 BC, appears to be an early form of an electrical cell. Scientists believe it may have been used for electroplating metals.
Today, we rely on modern electrical systems that require regular maintenance. Whether it's rewiring, fault finding, or installing new outlets, an experienced electrician in Stoke-on-Trent can ensure your electrical system is safe and efficient.
8. Your Heart Beats Because of Electricity
Your heart relies on electrical signals to pump blood throughout your body. When these electrical impulses are disrupted, a pacemaker can help regulate the heart’s rhythm using small electrical pulses.
This same principle is used in defibrillators, which deliver an electrical shock to restart a heart during cardiac arrest.
9. Renewable Energy Is the Future of Electricity
Electricity isn’t just coming from fossil fuels anymore. Renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydroelectric power are becoming dominant.
The UK’s wind farms now generate more power than coal.
Solar panels are becoming more affordable for homeowners.
Hydroelectricity is responsible for over 16% of the world’s energy supply.
Want to make your home more energy-efficient? Installing LED lighting, smart thermostats, and energy-saving outlets can help lower your bills. Contacting a qualified electrician in Stoke-on-Trent is the best way to ensure safe and effective installations.
10. Electricity Can Travel Through Air
While electricity usually flows through wires, high-voltage electricity can jump through the air. This is how Tesla coils work—transmitting electrical energy through space.
This technology is being explored for wireless electricity transmission, where devices could be powered without needing to be plugged in!
Final Thoughts: The Shocking World of Electricity
Electricity is a fascinating, powerful, and essential part of life. From powering our homes to keeping our hearts beating, it’s a force we depend on every day.
If you need electrical repairs, upgrades, or inspections, it’s always best to work with a qualified electrician in Stoke-on-Trent. Whether it's a new lighting installation, fuse board upgrade, or emergency electrical issue, LSB Electrical Solutions is here to help.
🔧 Need an electrician in Stoke-on-Trent? Contact us today for a free consultation!
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