Birds can perch safely on overhead electric power cables without being electrocuted because

Physics

WAEC 1990

A. birds can withstand high p.d. of the electric power cables
B. any accumulated charge on the birds is quickly dissipated
C. the feet of the birds are well insulated
D. the current is a.c. and has particular direction
E. there is no p.d between the birds and the cables

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Correct Answer: Option E

Explanation

A bird remains safe on a single wire because it has only one point of contact, keeping it at a single electrical potential. However, if the bird touches another object with a different potential, it would complete a path to the ground, resulting in severe electric shock or electrocution.

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