Editing VanDeGraaff Generator (section)

== Demonstration ==

Make sure the generator is turned off before starting each demonstration. See the end of “Demonstration” for instructions on how to discharge properly. Choose the demonstrations you would like to perform.

Standard Discharge
    Plug the metal rod into one of the holes on the generator to ground it. Turn the generator on. Bring the metal rod close to the top ball of the generator. You can show various jumps by holding the stick at varying distances.

Wig – Like Charges Repel
    Turn Place wig on the top of the generator. Turn the generator on. Discharge before turning off.

“Airplane People” – Like Charges Repel
    You will need the metal cup, plastic cup, and packing peanuts. Place the metal cup on the generator. Place peanuts inside the cup. Turn the generator on. Observe the lack of flying peanuts. Discharge and turn the generator off. Remove metal cup from the generator and replace it with the plastic cup. You will need to tape the plastic cup onto the generator. Transfer the peanuts into the plastic cup. Turn the generator on. Observe the flying peanuts. Discharge and turn off. Clean up your mess.

Bell – Transfer of Charges
    Place bell contraption on top of the generator. Make sure the ball is the correct distance away. (The correct distance will change from day to day. You want the ball close to the bell connected to the generator but not quite touching.) Turn on the generator and observe. The ball should go back and forth between the two bells. If it doesn’t, you need to discharge everything and move the ball accordingly. (You may want to do this prior to show time.) Discharge everything before turning it off.
Fluorescent Light – Induced Charge
    Place the grounding wrist band on whichever arm you plan on holding the light with. Plug the wrist band grounding device into the generator. Turn on the generator. Making sure you are holding the light with your grounded hand, bring the light close to the generator but don’t touch it (or it won’t work). Preferably, have it discharge through the wires on the end and not the glass because it might damage the light. Discharge and turn the generator off.

Van de Graaff Generator (in general)

This is an explanation only. The way it is described will depend on audience age.

How to Properly Discharge

The metal rod should always be plugged in to the generator. Discharge by placing the metal rod on the generator and holding it there to prevent further build up of charge. Turn off the generator.