Kemmler's right leg and head were shaved and a white paste that enhances the flow of electricity was rubbed onto his head. ... However, after a 17-jolt of electricity, Kemmler appeared dead but jerked suddenly. ...
The electricity that is generated by the chair outwits the brain, which is insulated by the skull, and instead passes through the body and out the leg. Even though the electricity is going through the body, the prisoner is still conscious. ...