For current to pass through the body, what must the body provide?

• A. A closed circuit
• B. A path to ground
• C. A protective shield
• D. Direct contact with a power source

Answer: (B)

Current flows only when there is a complete path from the power source back to the source. When the body is part of the circuit, it must provide a path to ground so that current can return to the source. Without this return path, the circuit isn’t complete and little or no current will flow through the body. A closed circuit is necessary, but the body’s role is specifically to connect to ground and complete the loop. A protective shield doesn’t create a conductive path, and just touching a power source doesn’t guarantee current flow unless there is a complete return path back to the source.