Final answer:
Both high voltage and high current can be dangerous, with the risk level dependent on resistance, current path, duration, and whether the current is AC or DC. High voltage can drive a larger current through a low-resistance path, which can be lethal. However, high voltage without sufficient current, like static electricity, can be harmless.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering the hazards of electricity, it's important to recognize that both high voltage and high current can be dangerous under different circumstances. The danger from an electrical shock depends on various factors including whether the current is AC or DC, the path the electricity takes through the body, its duration, and the electrical resistance of the body.
High voltage can be dangerous because it can cause a larger current to flow. According to Ohm's law, I = V/R, where I is the current, V is the voltage, and R is the resistance. If the body's resistance is low, as when skin is wet, even a voltage that is not considered very high can cause a dangerous level of current to flow.
In contrast, certain high-voltage conditions, such as static electricity, might not lead to a harmful current. Moreover, AC is often more harmful than DC because of the frequency at which the current changes direction, which can have a greater effect on the human body and particularly on the heart. Special considerations, such as the way fuses and circuit breakers function in high-voltage environments, also play a crucial role in electrical safety.