Possibly stupid question regarding heating elements

[dormermike]

Hi

So a heating element, such as on the top of a hob, heats up because electricity is passing through it - is that correct? And it gets hot because the resistance is just enough to cause sufficient heat, or thereabouts.

If electricity is running through the element, why dont i get an electric shock when touching it? Or see sparks when I "short" it against the earthed body of the hob?


Cheers
Mike

 

[Diyisfun]

Because is encased in an earth sheath.
The wire is below the outer sheath taht glows.

 

[dormermike]

aha! makes sense. Thanks for taking the time to reply.

Cheers