The severity of electrical shock is increased with less ____.

The severity of electrical shock is significantly influenced by the resistance of the body through which the electrical current flows. In electrical terms, resistance impedes the flow of current, which is influenced by factors like skin condition (dry or wet), the area of contact, and the path the current takes through the body. When resistance is low, more current can pass through the body, which increases the potential for severe electrical shock.

When the resistance is decreased, it allows more current to flow for a given voltage, because of Ohm’s Law (V = I × R), where V is voltage, I is current, and R is resistance. A higher current flow can lead to more severe physiological effects, such as muscular contractions, heart fibrillation, or even death.

On the other hand, if resistance is high, less current flows through the body, which typically results in a reduced severity of electrical shock. Thus, understanding that less resistance increases the risk associated with electrical shocks is critical for safety in electrical work and maintenance.