Hair Raising
Coulomb force - electrostatic repulsion - Van de Graaff generator
What it shows:
A Van de Graaff generator will apply a charge to its dome and anything
else in contact with the dome. Should that object be a person, they
obtain a net surplus of charge (be it positive or negative). It is
especially noticeable with hair, as each individual strand is repelled
from every other and from the scalp.
How it works:
Details of the Van de Graaff are written in the
Van de Graaff Generator demo. The volunteer
should stand on an insulating platform (we use a plastic bucket), and
place both hands upon the Van de Graaff dome. The operator should
switch it on and stand back. Before stepping down, allow the generator
to stop, and discharge the dome with the earthed rod.
Setting it up:
Place the Van de Graaf in an open space on the hall floor. The bucket
should be placed a reasonable distance from the base of the generator
(the victim will need to lean across) so as to avoid discharge to other
parts of the body. Remember to dry the wig overnight before the class
with a heat lamp (don't put it too close or you'll melt it).
Comments:
Obviously long hair is an essential qualification for the volunteer. Should
there not be a suitable respondent, the lecturer (if they do not have the
necessary locks) can be provided with a wig
1
Humidity (as with all electrostatics demos) plays a large role in the
success of this display. Rating ****
1 We have a long blonde model from Franklin Fashions Corp., Valley Stream NY 11580