Does anyone own a Wimshurst or Electrostatic machine?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers around the ownership and popularity of Wimshurst and electrostatic machines, with a focus on their limited use in home environments compared to devices like Van de Graaff generators and plasma globes. Participants note that these machines are primarily utilized in educational settings such as schools and laboratories. The conversation highlights the fascination with electricity and the visual appeal of devices like plasma globes, which are more commonly purchased for entertainment purposes.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electrostatic machines and their functions
  • Familiarity with Van de Graaff generators
  • Knowledge of plasma globes and their operation
  • Basic principles of electricity and static charge
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the construction and operation of Wimshurst machines
  • Explore the educational applications of electrostatic machines in science curricula
  • Investigate the differences between Van de Graaff generators and Wimshurst machines
  • Learn about the physics behind plasma globes and their visual effects
USEFUL FOR

Electronics enthusiasts, educators in physics, hobbyists interested in electrostatics, and anyone exploring the practical applications of electrostatic machines.

AlexB23
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Hey guys. Electricity is a fascinating thing that I steer clear of, however, when scrolling YouTube a decade ago, I found out that there are hand-cranked machines that make sparks. Do any of you guys own one of these electrostatic machines? If so, what got you into owning one?
 
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Since you haven't received any replies yet, I'm guess that folks don't usually get these for home use/entertainment. Probably they are more commonly used in educational environments like schools and labs.

We've had a number of threads over the years about home-built Van de Graaff generators, but I'm not sure why they are more popular:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Van_de_Graaff_generator

Probably the most popular would be the Plasma Globes that you can buy from lots of places:

1758555096563.webp


https://www.arborsci.com/products/8-plasma-globe
 
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berkeman said:
Since you haven't received any replies yet, I'm guess that folks don't usually get these for home use/entertainment. Probably they are more commonly used in educational environments like schools and labs.

We've had a number of threads over the years about home-built Van de Graaff generators, but I'm not sure why they are more popular:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Van_de_Graaff_generator

Probably the most popular would be the Plasma Globes that you can buy from lots of places:

View attachment 365741

https://www.arborsci.com/products/8-plasma-globe
Plasma globes are pretty cool. I have touched one before, and the electricity can be a little freaky to see under the glass.
 
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