Electric arc

An electric arc is an electrical breakdown of a gas which produces a plasma spark.

The electric arc was first described in 1801. Electric arcs are used for welding, plasma cutting and lighting for stage performances. Electric arc furnaces are used in making steel and other things.

Electric Arc Media

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  An electric arc between two nails

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  Natural lightning is now considered an electric spark, not an arc.

• Electric arcs between the power line and pantographs of an electric train after catenary icing

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  Electricity arcs between the power rail and electrical pickup "shoe" on a London Underground train

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  Electric arc between strands of wire.

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  A time exposure of a Jacob's ladder

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  A demonstration of Jacob's ladder

• Jacob's ladder - high voltage traveling arc

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  A burn in a plug caused by an electric arc during a short circuit.