What is a key characteristic of an electrical arc?

A key characteristic of an electrical arc is that it can form across a gap. An electric arc occurs when a conducting path forms between two electrodes, allowing current to flow through the air or another medium. This phenomenon typically occurs under conditions of high voltage that can create sufficient ionization of the air, bridging the gap between the electrodes even when they are separated.

This characteristic is crucial for fire and explosion investigations, as arcs can be the source of ignition in various fire scenarios. Understanding how and why electrical arcs form helps investigators determine if electrical equipment or wiring might have contributed to a fire incident. The ability of arcs to bridge gaps is also significant because it highlights the potential hazards of electrical systems, revealing how stray currents can manifest in unexpected places, further underscoring the importance of careful electrical investigation in fire scenarios.