Have you built a Van de Graff Accelerator before?

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The discussion centers around the construction of a small particle accelerator, specifically starting with a Van de Graaff generator. The user seeks advice, tips, and resources from others who have built similar devices. There's a mention of historical context, noting that similar experiments were conducted in the 1940s during early atomic research. Additionally, the conversation highlights the largest Van de Graaff generator located in the Science Museum in Boston, Massachusetts, which was part of particle research in the past. A recommendation is made to visit the museum or check its website for further insights and inspiration.
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Last summer I finished my Tesla Coil and am now working on my next summer project, a small particle accelerator. I figured the easiest place to start would be with some sort of Van de Graff generator. I was wondering if anyone out there has built any similar device and has any useful tips, resources, or general direction I could take.
 
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I believe that this idea was tried in the '40s when Physicists were trying to 'split the atom'. (I may be wrong...)

However, the largest V de G in the world is in the Science museum in Boston, Mass. If I remember rightly, this is only one half of the original and was used in particle research back in the '40s.

It is well worth a visit - I went there nearly 20 years ago and still remember the stunning display of sparks, cracks and bangs. Awesome!

Perhaps you could visit or check out their website?

:smile:
 

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