Wimshurst Static Machine and Accessories
E.2(1) - Wimshurst Static Generator
It is an induction type machine which produces static electricity. It has 31 cm plates and high capacitance Leyden jars. At low humilities, 10-12 cm sparks can be drawn between the adjustable electrodes. The jars may also be disconnected to lower the capacitance of the system and permit a rapid sequence of sparks to be generated. Although the sparks will be of same length (the same maximum voltage V), they will carry less charge Q. As Q is smaller, it takes less time to accumulate it. The next five or so items are accessories that help in the electrostatic demonstrations.
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E.2(2) - Bell Chimes
Four metallic bells hang around a fixed one in a metal frame, as in the figure. Between these bells and the central bell are small insulated metal spheres. The whole structure is insulated. The metallic frame is connected to an electrostatic generator through a banana plug in its base. When the static machine is operated, the metal spheres keep hitting the bells due to the alternate attraction and repulsion, as they take charges from the bells by contact. It is about 30 cm tall and the bells are 10 cm for the center one and 8 cm for the four external ones.
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E.2(3) - Electric Whirl
Two perpendicular thin metal rods have their sharp needle point ends bent 90o. They are joined in the middle by a needle bearing such that this frame rotates freely on a stand. The stand is insulated. When connected to an electrostatic generator. the frame formed by two perpendicular metal rods spins due to electrical discharges from the needles. It is 20 cm long.
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