Van de Graaff Generator and Static Electricity

Front

Who built the largest Van de Graaff generator?

Back

Robert Van de Graaff

Front

What actually causes the glow seen in a spark?

Back

Electrons traveling fast and superheating the air

Front

What is the name of the particle that is being transferred in static electricity?

Back

Electron

Front

How does humidity affect static electricity?

Back

Humidity reduces the buildup of static charges.

Front

Where is the largest Van de Graaff generator in the world located?

Back

Museum of Science in Boston

Front

What is a Van de Graaff generator?

Back

A device that generates high voltages through the movement of electric charge.

Front

What is static electricity?

Back

A stationary electric charge typically produced by friction.

Front

What role do electrons play in static electricity?

Back

Electrons are the particles that are transferred between objects, creating static charge.

Front

How does friction contribute to static electricity?

Back

Friction between two materials can transfer electrons, leading to a buildup of static charge.

Front

What is the principle behind the operation of a Van de Graaff generator?

Back

It uses a moving belt to accumulate electric charge on a metal dome.