# Explain why earthing a petrol pump hose is important for safety.

> Edexcel GCSE Physics (1PH0) — 11.1 Static electricity (Phys only) · Explain · 4 marks

> As fuel is pumped through a hose into a car, a static charge can build up on the hose. Petrol stations earth their pump hoses to prevent accidents.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Static charge builds up as fuel moves through the hose (charged by friction / electrons transferred between surfaces)
2. If enough charge builds up, a spark can occur / the charge discharges as a spark
3. The spark could ignite the fuel / cause an explosion
4. Earthing provides a low resistance path for electrons to flow away, removing the excess charge / preventing charge from building up to a dangerous level

## Key terms

- [earthing](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/earthing)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Edexcel GCSE Physics (1PH0)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-earthing-a-petrol-pump-d849a02d) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.