5B10.58 - Van de Graaff - Fluorescent & Neon Light

Start the Van de Graaff generator and bring the fluorescent light near the dome.  As the Van de Graaff discharges, the light should light up or flicker.
Code Number:
5B10.58
Demo Title:
Van de Graaff - Fluorescent & Neon Light
Condition:
Good
Principle:
Electrostatic Discharge
Area of Study:
Electricity & Magnetism
Equipment:
Van de Graaff generator and fluorescent lights, neon lights.
Procedure:

Start the Van de Graaff generator and bring the fluorescent light near the dome.  As the Van de Graaff discharges, the light should light up or flicker.

References:
  • Ep-5:  Freier and Anderson,  A Demonstration Handbook for Physics.
  • Shar Levine & Leslie Johnstone,  "Chapter 21: Static Fireflies",  Silly Science,  p. 64. 
  • Forrest M. Mims, "The Neon Glow Lamp", Experimenter's Corner, Dec. 1976, p. 111.

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