Define “arc” as it pertains to soldering joints in IPC-A-610 terms.

In the context of IPC-A-610, "arc" refers to an electrical discharge that occurs when electricity jumps between two conductive points, which can lead to damage in solder connections. This phenomenon is significant in the inspection and reliability of solder joints, as arcing can result in degraded electrical performance, physical damage to the surface of the components or PCB, and ultimately, failure of the electronic assembly.

The relevance of understanding arcing is paramount for quality assurance in electronics manufacturing. If arcing occurs, it may create excessive heat that not only affects the solder joint itself but may also impact nearby components, leading to broader board failures. This understanding underpins the importance of adhering to proper soldering techniques and ensuring adequate insulation between conductive parts in an assembly to mitigate the risk of arcing during operation.