PURPOSE: To show the shape of electric field lines for a large dipole by observing soap bubbles move along the lines.
DESCRIPTION: A Wimshurst machine produces a high potential difference, one side of which is connected to a conducting sphere and the other side connected to a person blowing bubbles, forming an electric dipole. The bubbles attain the charge of the person blowing them and follow electric lines of force to the sphere, which has the opposite charge. A few bubbles will actually touch the sphere, pick up the charge on the sphere and return to the bubble blower.
SUGGESTIONS: Because of the volume and high ceiling required to do this experiment, it works only in the lecture halls.
REFERENCES: (PIRA unknown.)
EQUIPMENT: Wimshurst machine, large aluminum sphere, small insulating stand for person, two long wires, and soap bubble blowing apparatus.
SETUP TIME: 5 min.
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