5B10.40-Electric Field Lines on overhead

Description: This demonstration visually shows the electric field lines using the overhead projector.

Equipment:

• Rods and Fur
• 4 Electrode Configurations
• Top container of particles in oil
• Overhead Projector
• (Optional) Long Grounding wire

Setup Procedure:

1. Include all configurations unless otherwise asked.
2. Place on the overhead and focus.
3. If possible, connect the grounding wire to a grounded terminal. Make sure it’s a ground terminal and not a -V terminal (both are black).

Demonstration Procedure:

1. Start with one electrode configuration.
2. Place the oil container on top of it.
3. Turn on the overhead projector.
4. Charge up the ungrounded electrode using the rods and fur.
5. Note the particles align themselves with the electric field lines.
6. Repeat with the other three electrode plates. Shake up the oil container to remove the previous pattern.

Note: As with most electrostatic demonstrations, this works best under 50% humidity.

 
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