Electric discharge is the release of electricity that occurs when there is a sudden flow of electric current between two points. This can happen in various forms, such as lightning, static electricity, or when a capacitor discharges its stored energy. The discharge occurs when the electric potential difference between the two points becomes large enough to overcome the insulating properties of the surrounding medium, allowing current to flow. In everyday life, electric discharge can be observed when touching a metal object after walking on a carpet, resulting in a small shock. This is caused by the buildup of static electricity on the body, which discharges when it comes into contact with a conductor. Other examples include the spark seen when a light switch is turned off or the bright flash of lightning during a storm.