J3-06.HTML
J3-06: ELLIPSOIDAL CONDUCTOR

PURPOSE: To demonstrate that the charge distribution on a conductor depends on the curvature of the surface.

DESCRIPTION: The ellipsoidal conductor is charged, either positive or negative, using a charged rod. Simultaneously touch proof planes to the larger and the smaller ends of the figure, and then to the corresponding electroscope. A few transfers show that there is more charge on the smaller end than on the larger end.

SUGGESTIONS:

REFERENCES: (PIRA unknown.) See Demonstration Reference File.

EQUIPMENT: Ellipsoidal conductor, charging materials, two electroscopes with grounding wires, two proof planes.

SETUP TIME: None.


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