On this day in physics: Happy birthday to Benjamin Franklin born 17 January 1706. Benjamin Franklin almost needs no introduction, but as far as physics goes, was one of the first supporters of the concept of the electrical ground, the lightning rod, and of course made his famous kite flight with a key attached.
Word of the day: Electrical Ground is a reference point and method of protection in electrical systems. Voltage is a quantity which only makes sense when specified with respect to a reference potential. On this planet, the earth itself makes a very reliable reference potential, since it's so much larger than anything humans can make thus far. Ground is also referred to as "potential earth" because it is usually connected to the earth.
For safety, it acts as a method of discharging static electricity built up. It also protects against any wire on which insulation has failed. This makes electrical systems very reliable and safe.
Our birthday boy, Ben Franklin, was the first to popularize the idea of using a lightning rod, which is a long metal rod attached to buildings and houses, which allows lightning to go directly to ground, preventing fires and other calamities associated with homes beings struck by lightning.
Killer Resource: Exploring Electronics: Electrical Symbols App. The symbol of this app fits nicely with our word of the day, Electrical Ground.
Keywords: Electron, Benjamin Franklin, Ground, Grounding, Electronics, Lightning Rod
