Defibrillators are devices that deliver a high energy shock to the heart to stop life-threatening arrhythmias, such as ventricular fibrillation or tachycardia. The diagram below shows a general schematic of their design.
When the switch is connected in position A, which of the following describes the conversion of energy that occurs as current flows through the circuit?
A. Chemical to potential
B. Chemical to electrical
C. Electrical to chemical
D. Potential to kinetic
Click for Explanation
B is correct. When the switch connects in position A the circuit consists of a battery in series with a capacitor. Batteries store chemical energy, which is converted to electrical energy as current flows through the circuit and charges are deposited onto the capacitor. In position A, the battery is charging the capacitor. When the switch is in position B, the capacitor is connected to the patient, allowing a strong current to be delivered across the heart.
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