- Sections
- A. General Materials & Mathematics
- B. Statics
- C. Kinematics & Dynamics
- D. Rotational Mechanics
- E. Gravitation & Astronomy
- F. Fluid Mechanics
- G. Vibrations & Mechanical Waves
- H. Sound
- I. Thermodynamics
- J. Electrostatics & Magnetostatics
- K. Electromagnetic Principles
- L. Geometrical Optics
- M. Wave Optics
- N. Spectra & Color
- O. Vision
- P. Modern Physics
J2-14. Lightning Rod Simulator
Purpose
To demonstrate how lightning rods really work.
Equipment
Van de Graaff generator with ground sphere, ground wire with point.
Images
Description
A ground sphere is positioned adjacent to the Van de Graaff generator so that the ground sphere is charged by induction and creates large sparks. While this system is working, a grounded point is aimed at the Van de Graaff dome from a distance of several times the distance between the dome and the ground sphere. The grounded point discharges the dome at a much lower potential, preventing buildup of charge on the ground sphere and the concomitant spark discharge. ◙◙An apparently controversial theory of how a lightning rod works uses this experiment as a model. Being a point, the lightning rod◙a
References
Price and Crowley, The Lightning-Rod Fallacy, AJP 53, 843-848, (1991). ◙I. M. Benn and S. T. Shanahan, Of lightning rods, charged conductors, curvature, and things, AJP 59, 658-660 (1991). ◙E. R. Doubek, Living with Lightning, Popular Electronics, 32-34, 96, (Oct. 1990). ◙Richard Stone, Electical Storms: Violent and Creative, The Washington Post, A3, (July 30, 1990). ◙M. A. Baker and J. G. Dash, Charge Transfer in Thunderstorms and Surface Melting of Ice, Journal of Crystal Growth, 97,◙770-776, (1989). ◙Richard E. Orville, The Lightening Discharge, TPT 14, 7-13, (1976). ◙Walter Thumm, Question
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See pagesj1. electrostatic charge & force
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See pagesj3. electric fields & potential
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See pagesj4. capacitance & polarization
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See pagesj5. magnetostatics
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See pagesj6. electromagnets
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See pagesj7. magnetic materials
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See pagesj1. electrostatic charge & force
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See pagesj3. electric fields & potential
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See pagesj4. capacitance & polarization
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See pagesj5. magnetostatics
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See pagesj6. electromagnets
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See pagesj7. magnetic materials