Why does slapping a remote make it work sometimes?

Reading Time: < 1 minutes

Slapping the remote is not a sure-shot way of making it work.

But the “technique” does work sometimes, and here is the science behind it.

Because batteries sit in remote control for months or even years, an oxidative layer forms between the battery’s negative terminal and the terminal (spring) of the remote.

Forming of the oxidative layer, i.e., oxidation, is the same process that leads to browning of the apple or rusting of an iron bar.

The oxidative layer has the characteristic that it blocks the flow of current.

Now, if the remote control used a lot of power, it would easily overcome this resistivity posed by the oxidative layer.

But remote controls use small amounts of power, and so, an oxidative layer is enough to hamper its function.

When we slap the remote, the batteries inside move slightly to disturb the oxidative layer.

Small power (point 7 above) also explains why slapping is more often required in the case of old batteries (even less power).

As the resistivity weakens, the remote control starts to work again.

Also Read:
Why are TV dramas called soap operas?
Why is India crazy about cricket?

You may also like :

How is coffee decaffeinated?

What is the difference between venom and poison?

Why do we wear perfume on pulse points?

What causes kidney stones?

Why does food taste weird after we brush our teeth?

What are Rapid Antigen and PCR tests?

What will happen if you take medicine after its expiration date?

What is Molnupiravir, the COVID pill being considered a game-changer?

Why do kids love cartoons?

Why do mosquitoes bite some people more than others?

How hurricanes get their names?

How does Drycleaning actually work, and how did it start?

Why do planes dim the lights during take-off and landing?

What exactly is blood pressure, and what do those numbers mean?

How are calories in food calculated?

What is the science behind people being introverts or extroverts?

Why do boys play with cars and girls play with dolls?

Why does Vitamin K exist but not Vitamins F, G, H, I & J?

What is ‘Carbon Neutral’ and how is it different from ‘Net Zero’ and ‘Zero Emissions’?

How baby shampoos are tear-free but adult shampoos are not?

The post Why does slapping a remote make it work sometimes? appeared first on Things You Know But Not Quite | Amazing Facts | Trivia.