Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

I made a Van de Graaff generator for my science fair project this year and I followed, for the most part, a video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vfvjGeOGoBU linked here. Instead of a motor, I am using a power drill at full speed and at the bottom, I am using a PVC pipe with a cap on it. I drilled a hole in the cap to put a metal rod through and attach to the drill. At the bottom inside of the main pipe, I used a copper sponge. I also did that at the top instead of soddening braid. Otherwise, I used the same materials. I did put 2 rubber bands around the sides of the pantyhose grips at the bottom which might be a problem. I need immediate help if possible. Thanks!

Hi,

Sorry, but I can't say what might be wrong with your Van de Graaf generator based on the information you provided. You might want to check that you have a good ground connection at the bottom end belt contacts. And you want to have multiple contacts at the bottom and top ends of the belt. I think that's what the braided wire was used for in the video link you provided.

Some details about how a Van de Graaf generator works are available at the following links.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Van_de_Graaff_generator

http://practicalphysics.org/van-de-graa ... asics.html

http://amasci.com/emotor/vdgbug.html

I hope this helps. Please ask again if you have more questions.

A. Norman