5A10.10 Electrostatic Charges (Projectoscope)
Concepts
Separation of electric charge by friction between two neutral materials
Overview
Charging the Project-o-scope deflects its needle. It can interact with a positively charged glass rod (glass rubbed with cellophane) or a negatively charged PVC rod (PVC rubbed with rabbit fur). Ions from a flame near the Project-o-scope plate neutralize the charge.
Details
Equipment
- [1] Project-o-scope
- [1] Cellophane
- [1] Glass rod
- [1] Rabbit fur
- [1] PVC rod
- [1] Box of matches
- [1] Lighter
Important Notes
- As with most electrostatic demonstrations, this works best on cool, dry days
Script
- Rub the fur on the PVC rod.
- Touch the Project-o-scope plate with the rod.
- Light a match or ignite the lighter near the plate of the Project-o-scope to discharge it.
- Repeat step 1 to 3 using a cellophane sheet and a glass rod.
Additional Resources
References
- PIRA 5A10.10
Disclaimer
- Don't attempt this at home!
Last revised
- 2024
Technicals
- Original construction: the Project-o-scope was made by Dev-Coa Inc. and they appear to have gone out of business.
- On a bad static electricity day, it may be useful to bake the fur under a heat lamp to drive off moisture.
Related AV
Related demos
If you have any questions about the demos or notes you would like to add to this page, contact Ricky Chu at ricky_chu AT sfu DOT ca.