Marine Electrical Systems USCG Question #630 (Set 21)

If a digital multimeter set up to measure AC volts reads slightly above 'zero' when its leads are disconnected, what is this a result of?

Official USCG Answer & Rule Citation

Correct Answer: Option B — 'ghost' voltages due to electromagnetic energy in the air

High input impedance digital multimeters act as sensitive voltmeters capable of detecting induced electromagnetic or electrostatic coupling from adjacent energized shipboard cables. These non-contact capacitive pickups register as minor 'ghost' voltages rather than true circuit potentials.

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