Understanding Van de Graaff Generator Concepts

The video tutorial explains the Van de Graaff generator, a device that creates high electric potentials. It describes how the generator works by transferring charges to a sphere, leading to high potentials. The tutorial demonstrates electrostatic interactions, including the creation of sparks due to potential differences and the oscillation of a cotton ball between the generator and a hand. It also introduces the electrostatic whirligig, which rotates due to charge interactions. Finally, the video shows how a person touching the generator experiences hair standing on end due to charge repulsion.

What is the primary purpose of the Van de Graaff generator?

• To create high potentials in its sphere

• To generate electricity for homes

• To power electronic devices

• To measure electrical resistance

How are charges transferred to the sphere in a Van de Graaff generator?

• By friction on the belt

• By chemical reaction

• By magnetic induction

• By thermal conduction

What happens to the charges when they reach the sphere of the Van de Graaff generator?

• They are absorbed by the sphere

• They are distributed on the external surface

• They are neutralized

• They are converted to heat

What is the potential of the sphere connected to the ground?

• Zero potential

• Negative potential

• High potential

• Variable potential

What causes the air to become conductive near the Van de Graaff generator?

• High potential difference

• High humidity

• High temperature

• Low pressure

What happens to the piece of cotton when it is brought near the Van de Graaff generator?

• It melts

• It gets attracted and then repelled

• It remains neutral

• It catches fire

What is the name of the device that demonstrates electrostatic oscillation?

• Electrostatic turnstile

• Electrostatic generator

• Electrostatic pendulum

• Electrostatic motor

Why do charges concentrate more at the pointed ends of a device?

• Because of higher temperature

• Because of lower resistance

• Because of higher surface area

• Because of higher density of charges

What happens to a person's hair when they touch the Van de Graaff generator?

• It falls out

• It gets wet

• It stands up

• It changes color

Why does a person's hair stand up when they touch the Van de Graaff generator?

• Because of gravitational forces

• Because of thermal expansion

• Because of magnetic forces

• Because of electrostatic repulsion