Which part of the lightning protection system experiences potential differences leading to electrical sparks?

In a lightning protection system, the part that experiences potential differences leading to electrical sparks is the metal bodies. When lightning strikes or approaches a structure, the extreme energy from the strike can create significant voltage differentials. Metal bodies, such as structural steel or other conductive materials within a building, can become charged due to these differences in electric potential.

As the lightning energy travels, it can cause electric fields that create an attraction between these charged metal parts and the ground, leading to a discharge in the form of an arc or spark. This is particularly concerning in areas where metal elements are not properly bonded or grounded, as the differences in voltage can cause arcing between these metal components.

In contrast, ground electrodes are primarily responsible for safely dispersing lightning energy into the ground, while conductors serve to direct lightning strikes away from critical areas of the structure. Bonding plates work to ensure that various metal components are electrically connected to each other, minimizing potential differences and reducing the risk of electrical sparks. Therefore, the ability of metal bodies to carry and react to electric potential differences makes them critical components in understanding where electrical sparks might occur during a lightning event.