With a lot of voltage. That’s how some dude in the UK went about testing his new toy. Basically, an innocent CD is placed between two electrodes and at the flick of a switch–Bzzzzzzzzzzzz. A powerful electric current shreds the CD’s aluminum layer in a matter of seconds. Below is a screenshot from a vid posted on YouTube by Mr. Photonicinduction.
At the beginning of the video, which can be viewed here, Mr. Photonicinduction goes:
Alright boys and girls, this is how you erase a CD.
What follows next is what could be described as e-waste snuff. It’s grisly stuff but kinda alluring as well.
The Science Behind the Destruction
The process Mr. Photonicinduction uses to destroy the CD is based on the principles of high voltage electricity. When a high voltage current is applied to the CD, it creates a powerful electric field between the electrodes. This electric field is strong enough to ionize the air around the CD, creating a plasma. The plasma, in turn, generates intense heat and pressure, which causes the aluminum layer of the CD to vaporize almost instantaneously. This is why the CD appears to be shredded in a matter of seconds.
The aluminum layer on a CD is very thin, typically around 50 to 100 nanometers. This makes it particularly susceptible to damage from high voltage currents. The rapid heating and cooling caused by the plasma can also cause the plastic substrate of the CD to crack and warp, further contributing to its destruction.
Practical Applications and Safety Concerns
While the video is certainly entertaining, it also raises some important questions about the practical applications and safety concerns of using high voltage electricity in this manner. High voltage electricity is used in a variety of industrial applications, from welding and cutting metals to sterilizing medical equipment. However, it is also extremely dangerous and can cause serious injury or death if not handled properly.
In the case of Mr. Photonicinduction’s experiment, the high voltage current is likely in the range of several thousand volts. This is more than enough to cause severe burns or even cardiac arrest if a person were to come into contact with it. It is also important to consider the potential for electrical fires and other hazards when using high voltage equipment.
For those interested in experimenting with high voltage electricity, it is crucial to take proper safety precautions. This includes using insulated tools and protective gear, working in a well-ventilated area, and keeping a safe distance from the equipment. It is also a good idea to have a fire extinguisher and first aid kit on hand in case of emergencies.
In conclusion, while the video of Mr. Photonicinduction destroying a CD with high voltage electricity is certainly fascinating, it also serves as a reminder of the power and danger of high voltage currents. Whether for entertainment or practical applications, it is important to approach high voltage electricity with caution and respect.
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