Our smartphones have become extensions of ourselves in this digital age. However, a common habit – using a phone while it’s charging – could be posing risks we might not be fully aware of. This article explores the scientific reasons and real-life incidents illustrating why using your phone while charging is dangerous.
1. Overheating
Using your phone while charging can cause the device to overheat. A study published in the journal ‘Energy Reports’ highlighted that simultaneous charging and phone usage lead to a significant rise in the device’s temperature [1]. This is due to the dual heat generation from the charging process and running applications. In extreme cases, this can cause the battery to swell or even explode, as evidenced by various reported incidents like the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 recall in 2016 [2].
2. Reduced Battery Lifespan
The average lithium-ion battery in a smartphone has a certain number of charging cycles before its capacity begins to degrade. A charging cycle is defined as charging a battery from 0% to 100% and then discharging it back to 0%. Using the phone while charging disrupts this cycle, putting unnecessary strain on the battery and potentially shortening its lifespan, as supported by research from the Battery University [3].
3. Electrical Safety Concerns
There have been unfortunate incidents where phones have caught fire, or users have been electrocuted while using their phones as they charge. For instance, a 13-year-old girl in Vietnam was electrocuted while using a faulty charger in 2018 [4]. Such incidents typically involve damaged cables, non-original chargers, or electrical system issues, but the risk increases when you’re using the phone due to the additional power load.
4. Impaired Performance
When a device is forced to recharge its battery and keep resource-intensive applications running, it can impair performance. This is based on the basic physics principle of conservation of energy – as energy is finite, the device’s processor has to divide its resources between charging and operating, often resulting in a slower, less responsive device.
5. Risk of Excessive Radiation
While the science is still evolving, preliminary studies suggest that using phones while they’re charging could potentially increase exposure to harmful radiation. According to the World Health Organization, while the low levels of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields produced by mobile phones are not hazardous, prolonged or excessive exposure may have an impact on the body’s natural electrical system [5].
Conclusion
The convenience of using your phone while it’s charging might be tempting, but its potential risks make it a practice worth reconsidering. Adhere to responsible phone usage and charging habits, use original and undamaged charging equipment, and give your phone a break it needs while charging. Remember, a little precaution can go a long way in ensuring your device’s longevity and safety.
