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Basic Electrostatics System
Model No. ES-9080
4
!
Introduction
Demonstrations of electrostatic phenomenon have traditionally been
limited to the simplest experiments, using the most elementary
equipment, because of problems with technique and apparatus.
Moreover, the traditional demonstrations usually gave qualitative
rather than quantitative results. PASCO has attempted to remedy this
by designing the complete ES-9079 Basic Electrostatics system. This
guide will give the instructor enough of a step-by-step explanation to
master demonstration techniques. The range of demonstrations in this
guide more than covers the material usually presented in an
undergraduate unit on electrostatics.
Keep in mind the following principles for your electrostatic
demonstrations:
• Read the “Equipment Description” of this manual, which provides
information about using the equipment.
• Equipment orientations - Arrange the apparatus to be used so that it
is sufficiently separated and neatly arranged to insure that the
students can clearly see the setup. Each demonstration includes a
diagram of the suggested equipment setup. A preferred setup would
also use a computer with a
ScienceWorkshop
®
interface to display
the readings from the Electrometer (ES-9078) in a computer screen
that all can easily see. (You can use an analog display, for example,
to show the deflections of the needle, or a digits display to show the
voltage.) If a computer is not available, set the demonstration
electrometer upright to allow the meter to easily be seen. Always
consider how the equipment arrangement may affect charge
distributions. For example, a misplaced power supply can easily
change the charge distribution on a nearby sphere. Finally, always
stand behind the demonstration table to avoid obstructing anyone’s
view.
• Earth grounds - Although it is not always strictly necessary, the
demonstrator should be connected to an earth ground. Stray charges
on the demonstrator can cripple an experiment. Also, keep the
electrometer grounded unless specific instructions are given to the
contrary.
• Avoid unnecessary movement - If the demonstrator walks around or
waves his/her arms excessively, charge can build up in clothing and
affect the results.
• Humidity - The PASCO demonstration electrometer has been
designed to minimize the effects of humidity. However, a