FCC Exam Question: 3-100Q2

What is the purpose of not putting sharp corners on the ground leads within a building?

A. No reason.
B. It is easier to install.
C. Lightning will jump off of the ground lead because it is not able to make sharp bends.
D. Ground leads should always be made to look good in an installation, including the use of sharp bends in
Correct Answer: C

Explanation: Lightning, being an extremely high-frequency, high-current transient event, behaves differently than typical AC power. High-frequency currents tend to concentrate on the surface of a conductor (skin effect) and are subject to impedance changes at sharp bends. Sharp corners in a ground lead create points of high impedance and increased electric field strength. This concentration of charge and increased impedance makes it easier for the lightning current to arc or "jump" across the corner, rather than follow the conductor. This arcing can damage the building structure, create new current paths, or jump to nearby equipment, bypassing the intended ground path. Smooth, gradual bends provide a lower impedance path, allowing the lightning current to flow more effectively and safely to the earth.

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Includes Elements 1, 3, 6, 7R, 8, and 9.