Q. The top of the atmosphere is at about 400 $kV$ with respect to the surface of the earth, corresponding to an electric field that decreases with attitude. Near the surface of the earth, the field is about 100 $Vm^{- 1}$. Still, we do not get an electric shock as we step out of our house into the open house because (assume the house to be a steel cage so that there is no field inside)
A) There is a potential difference between our body and the ground
B) 100 $Vm^{- 1}$ is not a high electric field so that we do not feel the shock
C) Our body and the ground forms and Equipotential surface
D) The atmosphere is not a conductor
Explanation
The correct answer is Option D: The atmosphere is not a conductor.
A detailed explanation for this question is being prepared.
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker
Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist
Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.