For fun: How fast would an open-front CRT kill an average human? [A?]

  • I
  • Thread starter DynV
  • Start date
In summary, the article explores the potential dangers of an open-front cathode ray tube (CRT) and its lethal effects on an average human. It discusses the physics behind CRTs, including radiation exposure and electrical hazards, while emphasizing the improbability of fatal outcomes under typical circumstances. The piece ultimately highlights the theoretical risks rather than practical scenarios.
  • #1
DynV
35
4
The following in only for fun: If one would cut out the front of a CRT, how fast would it kill an average adult human? If the room needs to be filled with a gas, imagine the person wore a diving mask, if the room needed to be filled with acid, imagine there's some kind of protective gel or deep sea suit that would keep the victim alive (until the beam killed him/her), as long as it's not ridiculously expensive (eg 1M$). I suspect this might be an advanced topic, but I was conservative and marked it as intermediate, feel free to change it.

Happy dicking around
 
  • Skeptical
Likes PeroK
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Ask a silly question, get a silly answer.
The CRT would not kill you. The beam current is less than 100 uA, to continue functioning, the CRT would need to maintain a vacuum.

There is insufficient volume of vacuum in a CRT, to change the air pressure in the room.

Your blood would not boil, unless you evacuated the room to a vacuum, because you felt sorry for the electrons in the beam.
 
  • Haha
Likes berkeman
  • #3
Baluncore said:
our blood would not boil
My blood is boiling now.
 
  • Like
Likes berkeman
  • #4
Good reply by @Baluncore so the thread is done now.
 

FAQ: For fun: How fast would an open-front CRT kill an average human? [A?]

1. What is an open-front CRT?

An open-front cathode ray tube (CRT) is a type of display technology that uses electron beams to create images on a phosphorescent screen. In this configuration, the front of the CRT is exposed, allowing for direct interaction with the electron beams, which can be hazardous due to the high-voltage components and the potential for radiation exposure.

2. How does a CRT generate harmful radiation?

CRTs generate harmful radiation primarily through the emission of x-rays when high-energy electrons collide with the glass of the tube. This process can produce ionizing radiation, which is known to pose health risks, including increased cancer risk with prolonged exposure. An open-front CRT would increase the risk of exposure to such radiation.

3. What are the immediate dangers of an open-front CRT?

The immediate dangers of an open-front CRT include severe electrical shock from high-voltage components, exposure to harmful radiation, and potential burns from the electron beams. The risk of injury or fatality would depend on the duration of exposure and the distance from the source.

4. How fast could an open-front CRT kill a human?

The speed at which an open-front CRT could cause fatal harm varies greatly depending on multiple factors, including the voltage levels, exposure duration, and the individual's proximity to the source. A direct and prolonged exposure to the electron beam or high-voltage components could potentially lead to fatal injuries within seconds, while radiation effects may take longer to manifest, potentially leading to long-term health issues.

5. Are there safety measures to prevent harm from CRTs?

Yes, safety measures include using protective enclosures, ensuring proper insulation of high-voltage components, and implementing shielding to minimize radiation exposure. Additionally, following safety protocols and guidelines when working with CRT technology can significantly reduce the risk of injury or fatality.

Back
Top