Info

Water falls through two cans connected by an “X” arrangement to opposite receivers. When enough charge builds up on the cans, they discharge and light a neon lamp connecting them.

Setup Instructions

1. Close the clamp on the tubing and fill the top container with water.

2. Open the clamp slightly so that a smooth stream of water goes out each of the spouts, through the small tin cans, and into the large cans at the bottom.

3. The neon bulbs will start to blink at regular intervals. Where does the charge come from? The apparatus is designed so that any small uneven distribution of charge between the two cans at the bottom will be amplified. Just the slightest initial fluctuation will grow until there is enough voltage to light the bulbs.

Parts List

Kelvin Water Dropper Apparatus in Room 326A

Large Beaker of Water in B. Fluids, 1B

Relevant Simulation

N/A

Other Information

N/A

Real-Life Examples

N/A

More Advanced Reading

N/A