The perception of an electric shock by humans can vary widely depending on factors such as the individual's sensitivity, the pathway of the current through the body, and the duration of the exposure. However, a general guideline often cited is that currents as low as 1 milliampere (mA) or higher can be felt by humans under certain conditions.
It's important to note that the perception of an electric shock isn't solely determined by voltage; current is a crucial factor as well. The relationship between voltage, current, and resistance is described by Ohm's Law (V = I * R), where V is voltage, I is current, and R is resistance.
The skin's resistance can vary depending on factors such as moisture, skin condition, and contact area. Wet or broken skin can significantly reduce resistance and thus lower the threshold for feeling an electric shock.
Voltage alone is not a reliable indicator of shock perception, as low-voltage sources can still generate enough current to be felt under certain conditions. Therefore, while voltage can play a role in determining the potential for an electric shock, it is the current that primarily affects human perception and potential harm.