Flame brought near charged electroscope

AI Thread Summary
When a flame is brought near a charged electroscope, the heat ionizes air molecules, creating charged ions. These ions are attracted to the electroscope, leading to the neutralization of its charge. As a result, the foil of the electroscope collapses. This phenomenon occurs due to the interaction between the flame's energy and the charged particles. Understanding this process highlights the relationship between temperature, ionization, and electrical charge behavior.
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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