What are probable results if the welding current is too high or the arc length is too great?

When welding current is set too high or the arc length is too great, the heat input to the weld area can become excessive, leading to several negative outcomes in the weld quality. A wide, splattered, irregular weld is likely to occur because too much heat causes excessive molten filler material to be deposited. This may result in inconsistent bead shapes, an uneven surface, and spattering, which can compromise the appearance and integrity of the weld.

The irregularities can also affect the strength of the weld, as an improper bead profile often results in inadequate fusion between the base metals and the filler material. Furthermore, this type of weld can lead to issues such as a lack of proper penetration or excessive burn-through in the base material, further diminishing the effectiveness of the weld.

In contrast, a narrow, clean weld would indicate an optimal combination of current and arc length, resulting in a well-controlled heat input. A weak and brittle weld and a shiny, smooth weld don't accurately reflect the effects of excessive current or arc distance, as they represent either structural integrity that would not occur under those conditions or a well-executed weld that is not associated with high current or improper arc lengths.