eli5 what would happen if i plug my 3 pin plug into a socket without the earth pin?

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i have a charger plug that i can easily plug into a extension cord backwards, without the earth connected. just curious about what it could do if i actually plug it in

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Anonymous 0 Comments

Nothing will happen. The earth ground is there in case of a short. Damage, accident, etc.

It carries the electricity back to a safe “ground” connected to every house. (Rod driven into the ground)

The breaker switches in the electrical panel will still work and shut off the power in case of a “fault”. But some electricity might flow through you instead for a few milliseconds giving you a nasty shock.

It’s safer to always use a grounded plug. But some small appliances don’t use it.

I wouldn’t use such a cord near water.

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