(April 3, 2014 at 9:19 pm)Kayenneh Wrote: I'm really accident prone, but there is only one instance that stands out. I was in fifth grade (I think..) and was about to iron the project I was working on, when I saw that someone had melted a corner of the extension cord with an iron. Curious as I was, I wanted to see what it looked like from the inside.. with a needle. Soon enough I got a shock that sent me flying/falling backwards and I blacked out, but I regained consciousness just moments later (or at least I think so) and thought to myself: "Yeah, I now see why my parents always said to be careful with electric stuff!"
That reminds me of something stoooopid I did when I was 15.
I built one of these in electronics shop (a Jacob's Ladder):
![[Image: jacobs_ladder_1.jpg]](https://images.weserv.nl/?url=electricmuseum.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fjacobs_ladder_1.jpg)
It's basically a couple of electrodes hanging off a step-up transformer. 22,000 volts worth, if I recall correctly.
So I remember thinking to myself "I wonder if it's hot enough to set a pencil on fire?"
Pro-tip: a #2 pencil will conduct electricity when 22kV is applied.
I have to say, it was one of the most unique sensations I have ever felt. Do NOT try it at home.
