Fluorescent light, balloons, silk, cats fur, Saran Wrap

 

Code Number: 5A10.19

Demo Title: Electrostatics - Fluorescent Light & Cat's Fur

Condition: Good

Principle: Electrostatics

Area of Study: Electricity & Magnetism

Equipment: 

Fluorescent light, balloons, silk, cats fur, Saran Wrap.

Procedure:

Rub the Fluorescent light with the cats fur in a darkened room.  The light should appear to flash momentarily as it is being rubbed.  Balloons or Saran Wrap can be substituted for the cats fur.

References:

  • J. David Gavenda,  "More Light on Fluorescent Tubes",  TPT, Vol. 36, # 6, p. 325, Sept. 1998.
  • Michael H. Brown, "In a Dark Room, Let There Be Light!", TPT, Vol. 36, # 5, p. 296, May 1998.
  • Philip E. Highsmith, "Static Electricity Demonstration", TPT, Vol. 6, # 8, Nov. 1968, p. 427.
  • Martin Gardner, "The Human Battery", Science Tricks, p. 57
  • Brown, "Light by Friction", 200 Illustrated Science Experiments for Children, p. 121.
  • Janice VanCleave, "Fly Away" and "Glow", 201 Awesome, Magical, Bizarre, & Incredible Experiments, p. 108.
  • Janice VanCleave, "Glow", Physics for Every Kid,  p. 9.
  • Joey Green, "Human Lightbulb", The Mad Scientist Handbook, Vol. 1, p. 47.
  • Rudolf F. Graf, "Charge Yourself", Safe and Simple Electrical Experiments, p. 3.
  • Rudolf F. Graf, "Rub for Your Light", Safe and Simple Electrical Experiments, p. 35.