Electrostatic Machine

Electrostatic MachineElectrostatics is the branch of electrodynamics that deals with stationary electric charges and the way they interact. This branch of science widely employs an electrostatic machine or so called Wimshurst generator as demonstrating auxiliary equipment.It is designed to generate great charges and high differences of electric potentials. The machine poles accumulate electric charges due to the electro magnetic induction phenomenon. The difference of electric potentials at dischargers may reach several thousand volts.The machine was invented in 1895. It includes two disks which rotate in opposite directions which are called Leyden jars. External covers of jars are connected with a movable plate installed between two clamps while internal covers are connected through separate conductors. Conductors have insulated handles. So you can regulate the distance between them. The external sides of disks have aluminum sectors. Brushes come in contact with such sectors.When disks are rotating, one of sectors carries a certain positive charge, while the opposite sector carries a negative charge. When sectors are moving in the opposite directions, their potentials grow as they have to sustain the force of their electrostatic attraction.Let me demonstrate how the electrostatic machine works.The charge is separated due to the rotation of disks. There is a charge accompanied by a click between conductors. The current strength depends on the rotation rate. It is small. However, the voltage is extremely high. Therefore, avoid contact with conductors.The electrostatic machine has been used during science classes for dozens of years.

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• charge
• electricity
• physics