Spark gap

A spark gap is a small space or gap between two electrical conductors that allows an electric current to jump or arc across it. Think of it like two parts of a broken pencil lead, about a millimeter apart. When electricity moves through the air between the two conductors, it creates a spark. That spark can be very bright and can be used in many different ways, like to start a fire or make a light bulb turn on.

In the old days, people used spark gaps to create electricity for things like radios and televisions. Today, spark gaps are used for other things too, like in science experiments or to study lightning. They are important to understand, because they show how electricity behaves differently in different settings.

Overall, a spark gap is just like a tiny lightning bolt that can help us do lots of cool things with electricity!