Static electricity is something we frequently encounter during the late autumn and winter months. It has been blamed for some dramatic failures such as theHindenburg disasterand some minor difficulties. In some situations, we have methods of avoiding it, while in other contexts there are no precautionary measures. In this discussion, explore static electricity, the ramifications of it on devices and systems, and the mitigation techniques that are sometimes used. Consider the following

• In what contexts does static electricity occur? In what contexts is it a problem? In what contexts might it not even be noticed?
• What techniques can be used to avoid static electricity or mitigate the problems? In what settings are these used?
• Are there mitigation techniques that seem like they should be used more widely and why?

As you are considering this, you might also share ideas about the most surprising ways that static electricity builds up.