What energy source does a defibrillator utilize to function?

A defibrillator functions primarily by utilizing a high-voltage electrical charge. This high-voltage charge is crucial because it allows the defibrillator to deliver a significant amount of energy in the form of a shock to the heart. The purpose of this shock is to restore a normal rhythm in cases of life-threatening arrhythmias, such as ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia.

The high voltage generated is necessary to overcome the resistance of the skin and to ensure that sufficient energy reaches the heart muscle to effectively depolarize the cardiac cells, allowing the heart to re-establish a coordinated heartbeat. In contrast, a low-voltage battery or other sources like gas or solar power would not provide the required amount of energy needed for effective defibrillation.