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DEM02 Wimshurst Machine and Van de Graaf Generator

Objective:

– To illustrate demonstration instruments that produce static electricity.

Apparatus:

  • Van-de-Graaf generator and Aluminum sphere
  • Wimshurst machine

      DEM04-1 - Van de Graaff Generator: Bat Activator and Aluminum Pie Plates

Method:

The students observe and hear the spark that is produced by both the Van-de-Graaf generator and Wimshurst Machine.

When using the aluminum sphere, the wire from the base of the Van-de-Graaf should be connected to the slot in the aluminum sphere.

 

 

How does a Van de Graaff Generator work? – Video created by Michael de Podesta from the National Physical Laboratory

MIT Physics Demo — The Wimshurst Machine – Video created by the MIT Physics Department

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