Electrostatic discharge is spelled [ɪˌlɛktrəʊˈstætɪk dɪsˈtʃɑrdʒ]. The word is composed of the prefix "electro-" which means "related to electricity", followed by the adjective "static" and the noun "discharge". The i in "electro-" sounds like "ee", while the o in "static" sounds like "ah". The second syllable of "electrostatic" is stressed, which is marked by the apostrophe in the phonetic transcription. The final syllable of "discharge" has a "j" sound spelled with a "c" followed by "h" and "ɑ" sound.
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) refers to the sudden flow of electricity between two electrically charged objects with different potentials. It occurs when there is a rapid release of stored static electricity, resulting in an equilibrium between the charges of the objects. This phenomenon can lead to the transfer of electrical energy from one object to another, potentially causing damage or disturbance to sensitive electronic equipment and components.
ESD can occur due to various factors, such as friction between materials, contact between different surfaces, or even exposure to static charges in the environment. When two objects come into contact or close proximity, the electric charges can transfer, causing a noticeable or even imperceptible electric shock. ESD can also occur in scenarios where an object with a high static charge comes close to a ground or a conductor, resulting in a rapid discharge of electrical energy.
The consequences of electrostatic discharge can range from minor discomfort, such as feeling a small shock, to severe damage to electronic components. It is of particular concern in manufacturing and handling of sensitive equipment and devices like computer chips, circuit boards, or integrated circuits. ESD protection measures, such as grounding techniques, antistatic wrist straps, and conductive packaging, are employed to prevent or minimize the risk of ESD-induced damage.
Overall, electrostatic discharge refers to the sudden release of static electricity between charged objects, posing a risk to sensitive electronic equipment and necessitating the implementation of appropriate protective measures.
The term "electrostatic discharge" (ESD) is derived from two main components: "electrostatic" and "discharge".
1. Electrostatic:
- "Electro-" comes from the Greek word "ēlektron", meaning amber. Amber was discovered to have the property of attracting light materials when rubbed, which led to the understanding of static electricity.
- "-static" is derived from the Greek word "statikos", meaning "causing to stand". It refers to the stationary or fixed nature of charged objects in electrostatics.
2. Discharge:
- "Discharge" stems from the Old French word "descharger", ultimately from Latin "dis-" (expressing negation or separation) and "carricare" (to load). So, "discharge" originally referred to the unloading or release of something.