Final answer:
A surge is an increase in voltage that lasts longer, from milliseconds to seconds, whereas a spike is a brief, very short-term increase in voltage that lasts for microseconds. A surge is weaker than a spike but has a longer duration.
Step-by-step explanation:
The terms surge and spike both refer to variations in power levels, commonly discussed within the context of electronics and power supply. A surge, in the context of electrical power, is an increase in voltage that is higher than the normal level of voltage and lasts for a longer period of time, typically milliseconds to seconds. This is similar to a stimulus of longer durations causing a longer lasting depolarization.On the other hand, a spike is an abrupt increase in voltage that occurs for a very short duration, typically microseconds. It is similar to a brief but intense stimulus; however, it is generally of greater strength than what would be considered a surge, although its duration is much shorter.Therefore, the correct comparison would be: A surge is weaker than a spike but lasts longer.