Although the basic concept of electrostatic attraction has been known since ancient times, it was only in the 17th century that scientists began to systematically investigate electrostatics. One of ...

What I particularly like about the Van de Graaff (or VDG) is that it’s a combination of a few discrete scientific principles and some mechanically produced current, making it an interesting study. For ...

Static charge builds up on the Van de Graaff generator dome. Many different individual demos can be done with it. The Van de Graaff can be used to charge up the hair of a Barbie doll or person. When ...

The Van de Graaff generator, named for its inventor, Alabama native Robert J. Van de Graaff, is a staple at science museums and science fairs for its ability to demonstrate static electricity and make ...

A sharp conductor on the Van de Graaff generator will emit electrons via corona discharge and prevent arcing to an adjacent grounded tower. A shard of GaAs on a Van de Graaff generator will also ...

Visitors to the Museum of Science in Boston are always in for a hair-raising treat when they enter the facility’s Theater of Electricity. This small amphitheater is actually the permanent home of the ...