Capacitors: Dissectible Capacitor

Photo Shows the Demonstration used at the University of Texas.

Instructions / Notes:

• Demonstration includes a Leyden jar type capacitor, metal grounding plate and a Wimshurst machine for charging.
• One pole the Wimshurst is connected to the top post of the Leyden jar.
• The second pole on the Wimshurst is connected with a wire to the edge of a metal grounding plate.
• Demo Staff: Use an alligator clip that has been spread open a bit at at the connector to facilitate quick removal of the red wire.

Photo Shows the loose fit of the alligator clip relative to the banana plug on the end of the red wire .

Procedures / Presentation in Class:

• After charging the Leyden Jar with the Wimshurst, quickly disconnect the red wire from the top post.

Photo Shows the removal of the red wire .

• The Leyden jar can now be dissassembled and then reassembled on top of the wooden portion of the table.

• Once reassembled - the Leyden jar can be discharged with the provided tool.

Photo Shows the use of the Discharge Wand.

The 3 minute video below is intended for staff use.

Last updated on October 14, 2024