What type of failure can electrostatic discharge (ESD) commonly cause?

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can lead to electrical shorts because it generates a sudden burst of electrical energy that can disrupt the functioning of electronic components. When a discharge occurs, it can create a high-voltage spike that may cause internal damage to semiconductor junctions, leading to a short circuit. This short can manifest as a direct path for current that bypasses normal circuitry, potentially causing components to fail permanently or reducing their lifespan.

In contrast, mechanical failures generally arise from physical stress or fatigue, while software errors are related to logic or programming issues rather than electrical interference. Thermal failures typically occur when components overheat due to excessive current or environmental conditions, which is also separate from the immediate effects of ESD.