Why in winter I get shocked and hear electric crackling everywhere I touch?

(Dan Tri) - Although it is not a dangerous phenomenon to health, the "jumps" even when lightly touched every winter still make many people feel uncomfortable.

Whenever the weather is cold and dry or during winter days, many people hear a crackling sound when taking off their sweaters or coats; feel like they are being electrocuted when touching metal surfaces or jump when shaking hands with others.

Why does it feel like I'm being "electrocuted" even when touching fabric?

It is a phenomenon of static electricity - which originates from electrons moving between two surfaces when rubbing against each other, creating an imbalance of charge and leading to a discharge when touching a conductor.

Specifically, atoms are made up of electrons, protons, and neutrons. Electrons have a negative charge, protons have a positive charge, and neutrons are neutral. When there is friction between the body and surfaces, we lose electrons, leaving an excess negative charge that leads to discharge when touching a conductor.

In our daily lives, we come into contact with many surfaces. Different materials tend to exchange electrons at different rates and levels. At the microscopic level, surfaces have rough spots, and when in contact and friction, voltage is formed and accumulated, waiting for the opportunity to discharge when touching the connecting object.

Does static electricity only occur in cold weather?

In winter, when people tend to wear clothes using woolen fabrics, synthetic fibers such as polyester, nylon - materials that easily create static electricity if constantly rubbed. Especially when in contact with hair, when taking off hats and coats, we hear cracking sounds, feel numb, stick to the body, even sparks.

In fact, it is not only winter that can cause people to experience this condition.

Dry, lack-of-humidity air in winter makes us feel static electricity more clearly (Illustration: Getty).

Humid air causes charges to dissipate faster because water molecules act as “guides” for electrons. Vietnam’s humid tropical climate has helped to significantly reduce the frequency of static electricity.

However, the low humidity in winter air will make the static electricity problem worse. Cold air does not hold much moisture, while the drier the environment, the more likely static electricity will occur.

How to not "jump" when holding in winter?

Static electricity does not cause any adverse health effects, but it still makes many people feel uncomfortable, even afraid, when touching other surfaces in the winter.

Limit the use of clothes and shoes made from felt, wool, rubber, and synthetic fabrics because these materials easily lead to static electricity.

Wiping your hands with wet wipes can reduce the risk of "electric shock" in winter (Illustration: Getty).

When in low humidity environments, increase the humidity in the air by using a humidifier; maintain skin moisture with moisturizers, anti-chapping creams, etc.

Some tips to avoid static electricity include carrying small pieces of metal such as keys, bracelets, rings, etc. to eliminate the amount of electricity accumulated in the body; or wiping hands with wet tissues before touching other objects.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/khoa-hoc/vi-sao-mua-dong-cham-tay-vao-dau-cung-giat-nghe-tieng-dien-tanh-tach-20251201172341162.htm