Chapter 22, Problem 1FTD

Why can a bird perch on a high-voltage power line without getting electrocuted?

To determine

the reason for a bird perch on a high voltage power line without getting electrocuted.

Answer to Problem 1FTD

There is no potential difference when the bird perch on a high voltage power line.

Explanation of Solution

Electricity flows from the area of high voltage to areas of low voltage. It chooses to flow through a least resistive path. Electricity flowing through a single power line at $35,000\text{ volts}$ will bypass the bird and continues along its path.

Since there is no difference in electrical potential difference between the legs of the bird and so the electric current choose to flow through the wire as it is the least resistive path for it to flow

Conclusion:

There is no potential difference when the bird perch on a high voltage power line, therefore the bird perch on a high voltage power line without getting electrocuted.