Flame brought near charged electroscope

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the behavior of a charged electroscope when a flame is brought near it. Participants are exploring the underlying physics concepts related to charge distribution and the effects of heat and ionization.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants attempt to explain the phenomenon through various ideas, including electron excitation and ionization of air molecules. Questions about the nature of flames and their states of matter are also raised.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing exploration of ideas, with some participants suggesting that the flame ionizes air molecules, leading to charge neutralization of the electroscope. Others seek clarification and corrections on their understanding, indicating a collaborative effort to refine concepts.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the definitions and properties of flames, as well as the mechanisms involved in the interaction with the electroscope. There are no formal equations or established methods discussed in the thread.

Pseudopro
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Homework Statement


When a flame is brought near a charged electroscope, the foil collapses. How is this explained?


Homework Equations


None


The Attempt at a Solution


Electrons are excited and given energy so distribute equally on the foil. Probably wrong. Please give correct explanation. Thank you.
 
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Whats an electroscope?
 


chaoseverlasting said:
Whats an electroscope?

What's a Google? :devil:
 


Pseudopro said:
Electrons are excited and given energy so distribute equally on the foil. Probably wrong. Please give correct explanation. Thank you.

What states of matter comprise a flame?
 


A flame's just energy right? Does it have a state?
 
Pseudopro said:
A flame's just energy right? Does it have a state?

see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flame" :wink:
 
Last edited by a moderator:


Um... is this the important bit?...

The high temperature of the flame causes the vaporized fuel molecules to decompose, forming various incomplete combustion products and free radicals
 


Could someone correct me if I'm wrong?
 


The flame ionizes air molecules creating positively and negatively charged ions. Ions are attracted to the charged electroscope and they neutralize its charge making the leaf collapse.
 
  • #10


thanks for the confirmation :)
 

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