Any economical quantitative electrostatics experiment?

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on economical quantitative electrostatics experiments suitable for university-level undergraduates. Participants suggest utilizing a Van-de-Graaff generator for quantitative experiments, emphasizing its potential beyond mere demonstration. A proposed experiment involves using two Leyden jars with varying interior electrode areas, charged from the same source, to attract or repel a test charge, such as a ping-pong ball. Considerations regarding environmental factors like humidity and drafts are highlighted as critical to the experiment's success.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electrostatics principles
  • Familiarity with Van-de-Graaff generators
  • Knowledge of Leyden jar construction and operation
  • Basic experimental design and measurement techniques
NEXT STEPS
  • Research methods for conducting quantitative experiments with Van-de-Graaff generators
  • Explore the construction and application of Leyden jars in electrostatics
  • Investigate techniques for minimizing environmental interference in electrostatic experiments
  • Learn about the principles of charge interaction and measurement in electrostatics
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Undergraduate physics students, educators in experimental physics, and researchers interested in economical electrostatics experiments.

Dorea
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Do you know any economical quantitative electrostatics experiments for the university level?
I'm asking for some experiments for undergraduates in the electrostatics context. We have a Van-de-Graaff generator in our fundamental physics lab but this kind of devices are useful for demonstration, Can they be used for quantitative experiments, too?!
 
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Semi-quantitative good enough? Two (or more) Leyden jars with different interior electrode areas charged from same source attracting/repelling an unknown test charge (ping-pong ball) suspended by an insulating filament? Humidity and drafts could be a killer.
 

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