Solving a Disappearing Voltage Puzzle: The Ball Cyclotron Project

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The discussion focuses on a school project involving a ball cyclotron and the issue of voltage loss when connecting a Van der Graaf generator to aluminum tape. Participants suggest that the charge may dissipate into the air, particularly in high humidity conditions, and recommend avoiding sharp points in connections to minimize discharge. Solutions proposed include using alligator clips, folding foil edges to eliminate sharp points, and ensuring the bowl is clean to prevent leakage. Increasing the distance between charged strips is also advised to enhance performance. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of managing environmental factors and connection quality to maintain voltage.
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Homework Statement


I'm making a ball cyclotron (https://rimstar.org/science_electronics_projects/ball_cyclotron_electrostatic_accelerator.htm) for a school project. To generate enough voltage, I'm using a Van der Graaf-generator. The problem is that all the voltage, which I can measure, suddenly dissapears when I connect the generator with the alumium tape.

How is this possible and how can I solve this?

The Attempt at a Solution



My tutors think that the charge dissipates into the air.
 
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Static electricity has a way of dissipating.
Try to avoid any sharp points (pointed ends of connecting wires, etc.)
Alligator clips should work OK.
You might try folding the edges of the foil strips to get rid of the sharp edges.
Also, the bowl would have to be clean to prevent leakage between the strips.
Maybe the distance between the oppositely charged strips could be increased.
I built a "Kelvin Water Dropper" (Kelvin's thunderstorm) and once noticed that
it didn't seem to work as well in high humidity.
 

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