An electrical connection between discrete points allows the flow of electrons (electric current). A pair of connections is needed for a circuit.
Between points with a low voltage difference, direct current can be controlled by a switch. However, if the points are not connected, and the voltage difference between those points is high enough, electrical ionization of the atmosphere will occur, and current will tend to occur along the path of least resistance.
Famous quotes containing the words electrical and/or connection:
“Few speeches which have produced an electrical effect on an audience can bear the colourless photography of a printed record.”
—Archibald Philip Primrose, 5th Earl Rosebery (1847–1929)
“We will have to give up the hope that, if we try hard, we somehow will always do right by our children. The connection is imperfect. We will sometimes do wrong.”
—Judith Viorst (20th century)