Episode 10: Van de Graaff Generator

Van de Graaff generators create an electrostatic charge. The original machine was made to help with particle accelerators back in the 20’s. Now it is mostly used for static electricity experiments…like making hair stand up.

Static electricity is created when electrons jump from one material to another. Think about when you rub your shoes on the carpet then touch a doorknob…or a friend. Or, when you rub a balloon on your head and your hair stands up. These are small scale charges. Static electricity can come in big forms too. Lightning is the biggest example or a static charge.

For more ways to learn at home, check out the Discovery Center's website. https://explorethedc.org/discoveryath...