Which statement best describes the comparative hazards of alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) in low-voltage (< 1000 V) electrical injuries?
The type of current is irrelevant; only the duration of contact determines the severity of electrical injury.
AC is generally more dangerous than DC because it produces tetanic muscle contractions and can trigger ventricular fibrillation at lower current intensities.
AC and DC carry equal risk; tissue damage depends only on the applied voltage, not on the type of current.
DC is more dangerous than AC because it more readily induces ventricular fibrillation at lower current intensities.
AC at household frequencies (50-60 Hz) is generally more dangerous than comparable DC. The rapid oscillation of AC lowers the "let-go" threshold (≈ 15 mA for AC vs ≈ 75 mA for DC), so victims are more likely to be unable to release the source, prolonging exposure. In addition, ventricular fibrillation can occur with AC currents as low as 60-100 mA, whereas 300-500 mA of DC are typically required. DC usually causes a single, strong muscle contraction that may throw the person away, shortening contact. Although both forms can be fatal-especially at high voltage-the type of current clearly influences risk at common household and workplace voltages.
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Why does AC cause tetanic muscle contractions while DC causes a single strong contraction?
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