Van de Graaff Hair

This demonstration shows static electric repulsion. As the Van de Graaff generator charges the sphere on top, charge is transferred to the hair. As the charges repel and move as far away from each other as possible, the hair stands up and stretches out.

* Equipment seen in the video may vary from equipment used in ND Demonstrations. See information and images below for ND equipment and setup.

Setup:

Place the Van de Graaff Generator and wig on the lab table.Place the wig on top of the sphere on the Van de Graaff. Turn on the generator and increase the motor speed using the knob. After a few moments, the hair will stand up.

Notes:

This may also be done with a person if they place their hand on the sphere before starting up the generator and they stand on an insulating stool.

Courses Used In:

PHY 10320
PHY 20435
PHY 30220

Discussion and Polling Questions:

Coming Soon

Equipment Needed:

Van de Graaff Generator
Wig

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