VAN DE GRAAFF GENERATOR Meaning and
Definition
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A Van de Graaff generator refers to a scientific instrument used to generate high voltages, typically in the range of several thousand to several million volts. It consists of a large hollow metal sphere mounted on an insulated stand, with a rubber belt running vertically inside the sphere. The belt is driven by a motorized pulley system or a hand crank, which causes it to move continuously upward. At the lower end of the belt, there is a metal comb-like structure called a collector.
The generator functions through the principle of electrostatic induction. As the belt moves upwards, it rubs against rollers or brushes, causing it to become electrically charged. Electrons are transferred from the belt to the metal sphere, leading to the accumulation of a positive charge on the sphere. Simultaneously, the collector acquires a negative charge due to the excess electrons.
This charge separation creates an intense electric field between the sphere and the collector. When an external conductor is connected to the metal sphere, the high voltage of the generator is transferred to this conducting object. Van de Graaff generators are commonly utilized in various scientific and educational applications, such as electrostatic demonstrations, particle acceleration, and high-energy physics experiments.
In summary, a Van de Graaff generator is an electrostatic device that uses friction-based charging to accumulate high voltage on a metal sphere, allowing for the production of impressive electric fields and the transfer of high voltage charges to other objects.
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