Which voltage source can generate a higher arc energy in certain cases?

A low voltage source can generate a higher arc energy in certain cases due to its ability to sustain an arc longer than higher voltage sources. When encountering low voltage systems, the lower ionization energy required can cause the arc to persist, allowing for more energy to be dissipated over time. This persistence contributes to a higher amount of thermal energy generated during the arc event.

In contrast, high voltage sources typically produce arcs that are short-lived due to the rapid increase in current that often leads to a more immediate trip of protective devices or rapid extinguishment of the arc. Medium voltage sources can still create substantial arcs, but they usually do not sustain them to the same extent as low voltage sources. Direct current sources, while capable of creating significant arcs, may not maximize the energy output in the same way as low voltage sources due to their behavior in maintaining arcing.